Overview:
-
Proton VPN’s free plan offers unlimited data across ten countries.
-
Swiss law, audits, and a no-logs policy back its privacy claims.
-
Paid plans start at USD 2.99 monthly on two-year terms and cover 140+ countries.
Online privacy has become a daily concern for millions of internet users. Public Wi-Fi, data trackers, and regional blocks make ordinary browsing less private than most people expect. A reliable VPN closes these gaps by encrypting traffic and hiding the real IP address.
Proton VPN is one of the most discussed names in this space. It comes from the Swiss team behind Proton Mail and offers both free and paid plans. This article covers its features, pricing, supported devices, and Proton VPN reviews from testing sites.
How to Download Proton VPN
Users can download Proton VPN from the official website, app stores, or trusted hubs such as Gizmodo. The Gizmodo listing shows a Play Store rating of 4.7 from over 1.3 million votes. The App Store rating stands at 4.6 from 112,794 votes. The latest update was listed on September 28, 2026. Always choose official or verified
Windows:Official Proton VPN Download Page
macOS:Official Proton VPN Download Page
Google Play Store:Official Proton VPN Download Page
Apple App Store:Official Proton VPN Download Page
Linux:Official Proton VPN Download Page
About Proton VPN
Proton VPN operates from Switzerland, a country known for strict privacy laws and strong protection of user data. The company follows a strict no-logs policy, and independent auditors have also reviewed that claim publicly.
The network includes more than 17,000 servers across over 140 countries, giving users plenty of location choices. In tests by Security.org, download speeds dropped by no more than 8% while connected.
Key Features
-
Secure Core routes traffic through two servers before it reaches its destination, adding a second layer of protection.
-
NetShield blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites before they can load on the connected device.
-
The Stealth protocol helps users bypass censorship and VPN blocks in countries with strict internet controls.
Proton VPN for Windows, Mac, and PC
The Proton VPN Windows app supports 64-bit Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, and Windows ARM devices. Proton VPN for Mac comes with a dedicated macOS app, and Linux, Android, and iOS users get native apps as well. Anyone looking for Proton VPN for PC can also add Chrome or Firefox extensions for browser protection.
Is Proton VPN Free?
Yes, the free plan has no data limits and requires no payment details. It works on one device and offers servers in ten countries at medium speeds. Streaming access is guaranteed only on paid plans.
VPN Plus costs USD 2.99 per month on a two-year plan and USD 9.99 on a monthly plan. Proton Unlimited bundles Mail, Pass, Calendar, and Drive with the VPN. All paid plans carry a 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to Use Proton VPN
-
Download the app
for your device from the official website. -
Create a free Proton account. No payment details are needed.
-
Sign in and tap Quick Connect for the best available server.
-
Choose a specific country if you are on a paid plan.
-
Turn on NetShield or Secure Core from the settings menu.
Pros and Cons of Proton VPN
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free plan with unlimited data | Free plan works on one device |
| Strict no-logs policy | Free servers offer medium speeds |
| Open-source, audited apps | Streaming is guaranteed on paid plans only |
| Secure Core and Tor over VPN | Long-term plans cost more than some rivals |
| Fast speeds in tests | No free trial, only a refund window |
Proton VPN Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Software Name | Proton VPN |
| Developer | Proton |
| Category | Security & Privacy / VPN |
| License | Freeware with paid plans |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Latest Update | September 28, 2026 |
| Play Store Rating | 4.7 |
| App Store Rating | 4.6 |
| Free Plan Locations | 10 countries |
| Paid Plan Locations | 140+ countries |
| Simultaneous Devices | 1 (Free), 10 (Paid) |
| Starting Price | USD 2.99 per month |
| Refund Window | 30 days |
Final Words
Proton VPN pairs a strong privacy record with a generous free plan. The Swiss base, audited apps, and Secure Core routing give it a clear edge for privacy-minded users. Reviewers also report only small speed losses.
Paid plans suit users who need streaming access, more servers, and 10 devices. Casual users can start with the free version and upgrade later. Proton VPN remains a dependable pick for anyone who values safe browsing.
1. Is Proton VPN really free?
Yes. Proton VPN Free offers unlimited data with no ads and no payment details needed. It works on one device and connects to servers in ten countries at medium speeds.
2. Does Proton VPN work on Mac and Windows PC?
Yes. Proton VPN has dedicated apps for macOS and for 64-bit Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11. Windows ARM on 10 and 11 is supported too, along with Linux and mobile devices.
3. Does Proton VPN keep logs?
No. Proton follows a strict no-logs policy and operates under Swiss privacy law. Independent audits have reviewed the policy, and the company does not store or share any user browsing activity.
4. How much does Proton VPN cost?
VPN Plus costs USD 2.99 per month on the two-year plan and USD 9.99 on the monthly plan. Every paid subscription includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. Proton Unlimited bundles other Proton apps at a higher price.
5. Can Proton VPN stream Netflix?
Proton does not block streaming on free servers, but access is guaranteed only on paid plans. VPN Plus and Proton Unlimited are the better options for watching geo-blocked movies and shows.
