Private virtual networks are becoming more and more popular every day. Their functionality is used by tens of thousands of users: from companies or organizations that want to provide functionality for their remote workers, or users who are trying to bypass regional restrictions.
More recently, Opera decided to provide all its users with a free VPN inside the browser. If you are a user Google chrome then you probably want to use something similar in your favorite browser too.
The network has great amount options in the form paid VPN, but there is also a selection of really great free options for Chrome users... In this article, we'll take a look at six of the best VPN solutions for the Google Chrome browser.
Note: If you are using a VPN hoping to gain access to Netflix or BBC iPlayer, then you need to warn that these services and many others block access for VPN addresses.
DotVPN
DotVPN has been around since 2014 and continues to gain momentum. The service already has over 800,000 users according to the Chrome Web Store. It has over 6,500 user reviews that add up to a four-star rating.
- Unlimited bandwidth.
- Twelve virtual locations (Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Russia, United States of America, England.
- Unlimited switching between locations.
The developers also tried to provide improved protection, as this service uses 4096-bit key encryption, which is twice as good as modern banking standards.
ZenMate VPN
ZenMate VPN markets itself as a “cyber security solution”. They have at their disposal a network of highly secure proxy servers that encrypt your information and protect you from malicious sites.
ZenMate VPN service can be roughly divided into three components: Internet privacy, Wi-Fi protection and unlimited Internet access. Privacy will keep trackers away from you advertising banners, web analytics and social media while you surf the net. On the Wi-Fi side, you get multiple layers of protection when you are on unprotected public networks... Finally, with unlimited internet access, you can bypass geo-blocking.
ZenMate VPN also provides premium services that improve speed, add additional locations and provide 24/7 support... Available at $ 8 per month. So if you want to get the most out of this service, then be prepared to pay a relatively small amount.
Hotspot shield
Hotspot Shield is a relatively new player on the field. Immediately you need to point out that this resource operated by Anchor Free, which is considered the most trusted company in the industry. Interesting Facts: Anchor Free is over 10 years old with over 400 million downloads through various applications, on their account more than 20 million active users in 190 countries.
The Hotspot Shield services provided are free and unlimited, and there is also a version for iOS, Android, Windows Phone, OS X and Windows. As you can see, there is a fairly wide range of platforms, which is good news.
Just like ZenMate VPN, of this service there is a premium subscription that starts at $ 2.08 and up, depending on the length of the subscription.
CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is another provider that puts more emphasis on privacy and security than geo-blocking. According to their website, the service is responsible for blocking nearly 150 million ad units, 200,000 malicious websites, and 260 million attempts to track user activity.
In his best features includes:
- Incredibly easy to use: just one click on the on / off button.
- Protection against hackers, cyber fraud, bank theft and email fraud.
- Anonymous and ad-free web surfing.
- Fight against geo-blocking around the world.
- Protection from sites with malicious content.
- Data compression for mobile hotspots.
- Forced HTTP connections where possible.
The premium account is available for $ 3.79 per month.
Browsec VPN
Browsec VPN claims to be an improved counterpart to ZenMate, Stealthy and Hola. Its main advantages are allowing its users to access any site from anywhere in the world, improving the online privacy of users and protecting their personal data from various offenders.
The service takes a big step towards unblocking content from geo-blocking, but instead of opening sites like the BBC or Netflix, it unblocks Spotify, Pandora and SoundCloud, which are completely blocked in some regions.
TunnelBear VPN
Of all the services reviewed in our article, TunnelBear VPN is one of the best. Seventeen thousand reviews, which add up to a five-star rating. Instead of just being a VPN, this service actually encrypts a proxy.
TunnelBear has been around for years and has made a name for itself as a great product for Windows and Mac. If you've been even a little interested in the VPN topic, then you've definitely heard of TunnelBear at least out of the way.
There is one a big difference between the Chrome extension and the TunnelBear application you install - the Chrome extension encrypts only your browser traffic, while TunnelBear encrypts 100 percent of your data as an application.
TunnelBear provides users with highest speed among other VPNs on our list and its servers are available in 20 countries around the world.
Chromebook users can connect to a private network remotely, such as educational institution or at work) using a VPN connection.
Note. If you have any problems with VPN setup on your work or school Chromebook, ask your administrator for help.
Restrictions. Chromebooks do not support IKEv2, XAUTH, or non-L2TP IPsec.
How to create a connection
How to connect to a VPN
Typically, full tunneling is used for VPNs. In this case, all traffic from chrome windows, as well as Chrome apps and Android goes through the VPN connection. With split tunneling, some sites are accessed through a physical network connection Chromebook devices. This configuration is suitable for following cases:
- If the VPN assumes access only to internal sites.
- If, when connecting to a VPN, you need to interact with devices from local network such as printers.
Split Tunneling can be configured in many VPN apps for Chrome and Android, as well as the built-in OpenVPN client... To do this,
Among all existing methods protect your personal data, the most reliable and convenient for end user appears to be using different kinds vpn services and extensions. Such a position of these tools on the market is explained by the ease of operation, the inability to track the real location of the user, as well as many other advantages of this technology.
Description of the mechanism of access to the network via VPN
When figuring out how to enable vpn in chrome, you should first decide on the mechanism of operation of this kind of tools. It is extremely simple and reliable, which explains the popularity of such anonymization tools among users. The user can access the Internet through closed network located abroad, which allows, on the one hand, to change the IP address to prevent identification, and on the other hand, to completely ignore the blocking of various sites.
IMPORTANT! The confidentiality of user data directly depends on the conscientiousness of the used VPN service... In this regard, one should take the most responsible attitude to the selection of this important tool. Or you can pay for a server rental and run your own personal VPN, so as not to worry about the safety of the transmitted data!
Today, among the popular vpn extensions for chrome-based browsers, noteworthy are:
- TunnelBear;
- Hotspot Shield;
- Zen Mate;
- Browsec.
At the same time, there are a number of applications, the use of which, according to different reasons, Not recommended. First of all, these are HolaVPN and the like, which trade user data, thereby violating the interests of consumers. However, there are relatively few such cases of sale that have received publicity, and therefore, it is worth treating the services provided with a certain degree of doubt and not trusting such a connection completely.
Most Reliable VPN Plugins for Google Chrome
Considering free plugins for working with vpn, it should be noted the popular Browsec extension which boasts easy setup and encrypted server connection.
ADVICE! Peculiarity of this application lies in complete absence traffic limits, which allows you to avoid unavailability of the connection at the most crucial moment.
ZenMate can boast of similar functionality, which is also free, however, it has a number of disadvantages. Mainly, this is a ubiquitous advertisement that is shown in the expansion constantly and is very annoying when long-term use applications. But there are no serious restrictions on the amount of traffic transmitted.
The situation is different with the TunnelBear plugin, which boasts a pleasant design and the ability to select a server from which to access the Internet in the future. In addition, it is worth noting the connection speed, which is incredibly fast for this kind of tools. Unfortunately, these advantages are offset by very strict restrictions on the amount of data received using the service.
How to enable VPN in Chrome browser
To start full use any of the tools listed above, you will need to use the standard app store to download and install them. First of all, the user will need to click the Add to Chrome button on the extension page, and then wait until the installation is complete.
Further, the process of using and activating programs may vary. Some suggest just clicking on the corresponding icon, which will allow you to immediately start using vpn, while others, it takes some time to select the server location and adjust other settings for the future connection.
Bypassing the Netflix blocking, staying on VKontakte from Ukrainian IPs, downloading torrents with impunity - all this is possible with the Last Opera version got a built-in VPN function, but for "Google" you need to install the extension separately. V Google play or there are at least a hundred posted in the browser's online store various services... All are shareware and differ only in icons and logos. So you don't get confused about which one to choose, here are the evaluation criteria and a list of recommended VPN extensions for Chrome.
Free or Premium
Before moving on to the list of VPN services, let's figure out what criteria to select. In the first place is the question as ancient as the world: "To pay or not to pay?" Of course, saving is always nice. Especially if the VPN extension for the Chrome-browser is used for minor purposes. How, for example, go to Odnoklassniki. But if anonymity is needed for corporate work, you care about your privacy and security, then free package services are not enough.
Bandwidth
Imagine the situation. You pay for high speed internet 150 MB and want to install a VPN extension. But as soon as you do this, metamorphosis occurs with the Internet. Each page takes 10-15 seconds to load, watching movies online turns into agony, and even YouTube videos start to slow down. This is a free VPN trick.
PPTP connection
Free VPN versions use PPTP protocol... He is reliable, vulnerable and it is high time for him to be forgotten. Instead of protection, you can get hacked and data leaks. Paid service provides secure connection over L2TP / IPSEC, OpenVPN, SSTP or SSH.
Apart from third-party attacks, there is a risk of your precious data being resold when using a free VPN for Chrome. Hola extension recently caught in such dirty innuendo. The creators were bargaining for user traffic, but that's not the worst part. The service was used by hackers as a botnet.
Trust me, you won't be thrilled when a third party takes over your browser history. Therefore, refrain from the temptation to save money. Paid VPNs also have nice little things:
- lack of advertising;
- Support service;
- increased functionality.
When there is no money for a VPN
You have decided that it is free VPN is better than its absence. There is no possibility and no desire to pay for the service. In this case, use the devil paid version... Introducing the Top Best VPN Extensions for Chrome with a proven track record and reliable protection... Plus, every service on the list offers a week's Premium Trial.
You can, of course, go a not entirely honest path. When your premium account expires, uninstall the app and order a paid trial again. Remember to use a new mailing address every time to re-register.
DotVPN
Young but respectable service. According to the developers themselves, DotVPN is better than VPN. A bit like gibberish, but the service has 860559 users and 10 million downloads worldwide. The extension has 24 data centers in 12 countries: Canada, Germany, France, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom.
Advantages:
- unlimited bandwidth;
- v free version 70% of premium is available and you can use any of 12 countries;
- encryption with 4096-bit key;
- built-in firewall, or firewall, that filters traffic;
- the service does not register browser history, which means it will not resell the data.
The only downside to the free version of this VPN extension for Chrome is speed. No matter how the creators convinced of the vaunted power from Smart Security, video download online will be slow.
Hotspot shield
Most reliable extension. With its help, it is even possible to bypass the "Great Chinese Firewall". Belongs to a team of Russian developers living in California. In 2006, Dmitry Gorodyansky and Evgeny Malobrodsky decided to create a free Wi-Fi network for the cafe. The invention was named AnchorFree. It is now the largest platform, with 500 million users in 200 countries around the world.
This VPN extension for Google Chrome works on PCs with OS X and Windows. Also available for gadgets based on iOS, Android, Windows Phone. The service has a nice interface, a lot additional functions, you can separately configure AdBlock, install full protection or just individual sites. VPN is easy to turn on and off, and is also lightweight.
Browsec
One of best VPN-extensions for Chrome. It positions itself as an advanced analogue of ZenMate, Stealthy, Hola and friGate. Encrypts traffic and opens access to blocked sites. Weighs 2.42 MB versus 3.98 MB Hotspot Shield. There is a version for Android and iOS. Compared to other VPNs, the free version of Browsec is much faster.
Browsec allows you to use the free version with no traffic restrictions, unlike HOXX or Hotspot Shield. But access is open only to Singapore, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. For $ 3.33 per month, Browsec allows you to connect to 30 countries around the world.
ZenMate
German quality cyber security weighing 1.76 MB. The app has downloaded and installed 42 million users. ZenMate has 27 servers in different countries... It is a multifunctional service for PC and mobile devices.
Advantages:
- online privacy;
- secure Wi-Fi;
- unlimited access to the Web;
- bypassing geo-blocking and censorship;
- protection from tracking trackers.
ZenMate has only two functions: on / off. and change of location. You can also view traffic, there are tooltips. It's not just a plugin or VPN extension for Chrome, but full application... There are many articles on the official website about what a virtual private network, encryption, cryptography.
The main quality of ZenMate is turbo speed. This is really the most fast VPN including downloading a torrent. 7-day free trial available trial version for a premium service to appreciate ZenMate. A monthly subscription costs $ 7.49 or $ 4.99 per year.
TunnelBear VPN
Canadian bear on guard for your safety. Of all VPNs, the TunnelBear extension is distinguished by its logo. Also at the service best reviews, unparalleled 5 stars and reviews on Lifehacker, Mac World, TNW, Huffington Post, and WSJ.com. It's not really a VPN, actually. TunnelBear is more of an encrypted proxy. Cure53 security audit in August 2017 confirmed high level the security of TunnelBear servers and infrastructure.
The service weighs only 1.5 MB. There are two versions: a browser extension and a desktop application. In the first case, you get:
- bypassing locks;
- secure Wi-Fi connection;
- surveillance protection advertising campaigns and statistics sites;
- the ability to connect to 20 countries of the world.
As a VPN extension for Chrome on your computer, TunnelBear provides 100% data encryption. To install, you need to register a user and specify your mailbox... The service works quickly, the speed is enough for watching movies and video content.
Another feature is the creative map design when switching countries. The only downside is that the free version is limited. Only 500 MB are allocated monthly. If you "tweet" the bear, they add another 1 GB. There are two paid plans: Giant for $ 9.99 per month and annual subscription Grizzly for $ 4.99 for one month and $ 59.88 for twelve.
You can evaluate which of the proposed extensions is better on your own. All are easily and quickly installed in one click, each has an intuitive interface. You can use several plugins at once, the main thing is not at the same time. Ultimately, you will choose the best one for yourself.
VPN (virtual private network) is a technology that hides the entire network traffic user by redirecting it to third party servers... This is an improved way of anonymization for the Google Chrome browser compared to spoofing the IP address and using proxy servers, since in addition all traffic is encrypted - even a provider cannot hack it. VPNs are widely used by organizations to secure communications from headquarters to branch offices, and ordinary users to bypass various restrictions and blockings, protect when using public Wi-Fi and for other purposes.
You can learn more about how VPNs work in the video.
Previously, it was possible to access a VPN only with the help of special paid software that encrypts all traffic passing through the user's channel. However, today, in most cases, it is enough free extension embedded in the browser.
Opera was the first browser to offer a built-in virtual private network; now VPN can be used by google users Chrome and. Extensions for this browser are user-friendly and reliable.
Hotspot Shield - Free VPN Client for Chrome
Hotspot Shield is definitely trustworthy - this VPN for Chrome is operated by AnchorFree, which has been on the market for over 10 years and has 20 million users worldwide. The extension has over 350 million downloads in the Google Chrome store.
Hotspot Shield provides Free access to all blocked sites, hides the IP address and geodata, encrypts traffic using bank-grade algorithms. All these features are provided free of charge with no traffic limits. There is also a paid premium version, which differs in the number of virtual servers- you can only connect for free to networks in the USA, France, Canada, Denmark and the Netherlands.
To enjoy expansion of VPN for Google Chrome it is very simple:
- You need to download it from the Chrome store and install it, then restart your browser.
- To connect to a VPN, you need to click on the Hotspot Shield icon and open the settings window, where you can select the appropriate country.
- After that, the network is turned on and off with one click on the switch.
TunnelBear - allows you to unblock sites
Although the Tunnel Bear extension is not a full-fledged VPN, but just an encrypted proxy server, it provides a decent level of protection. This extension has a 5-star rating on the Chrome store and is one of the most popular.
TunnelBear has the following features:
The disadvantage of the extension is the traffic limit of 500 MB per month in the free version. You can expand it by subscription ($ 50 per year) or through promotions.
It's very easy to start using TunnelBear - you need to download and install the extension, register on the official website and connect using your username and password. The account is not used to track traffic, it is only needed to check the remaining traffic.
ZenMate VPN - Anonymous Data Transfer
Unlike other VPNs for Chrome, which have become add-ons to full-fledged products, ZenMate began its history as a browser extension from Google, with no versions for either. operating system... The plugin has a wide network of servers around the world and provides the highest level of traffic protection; VPN access is provided free of charge and without restrictions. main feature extensions - an opportunity automatic switching on encryption when entering certain sites.
The disadvantage of ZenMate is the very aggressive pushing of the premium version, which costs $ 8 and provides access to more servers at increased speed. After registration, a window with a payment offer will pop up, and the extension will persistently ask you to subscribe to the company's social media accounts.
The video explains in detail how to use ZenMate:
Hola is a great VPN for browsers
The Hola extension differs from other VPNs in the way it works: it uses computers of its users to hide traffic. Themselves virtual networks are located in 15 countries. Services are provided free of charge.
To use Hola on Google Chrome, you need:
- Download the extension from the Chrome store and install it.
- Go to the blocked site.
- Click on the Hola icon.
- Select a country.
By installing VPN on google browser Chrome, it should be borne in mind that when using them, only traffic from the browser is encrypted. To ensure 100% protection of your Internet connection, you must use full versions programs for operating systems.
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