Although there is an extensive list of Chrome extensions that promise to work as a VPN, adding security and enhancing the privacy of your browsing, these plugins are not real VPNs. They are just encrypted proxies and while they offer some of the features of a VPN (including the fact that they allow you to bypass restrictions), they don’t provide the high level of encryption that you can get from a VPN. These plugins are only able to encrypt traffic coming from the Chrome browser, unlike a VPN that can encrypt the entire traffic that passes through your device. In addition, these Chrome extensions that claim to be VPNs, are likely to be affected by multiple security threats since they don’t use encryption protocols like OpenVPN. Furthermore, they don’t enable your network to access remote machines, which is something that a true VPN can do.
Some of the security issues that can affect these extensions include worms, man-in-the-middle attacks and keyloggers. Another problem with these tools, and with free VPN services is that they have limited functionality. In most cases, they are subject to speed restrictions and they can also be filled with ads that can eventually compromise your privacy. While you can find many free options that advertise themselves as VPNs, the majority of them are not real VPNs and are not reliable. In order to enjoy true security and all the benefits that a VPN can offer, you need to configure the VPN on your device, or install a dedicated client. It is also advisable to opt for a paid option since it will ensure that you get better speeds and access to a wider selection of servers and features.
Running a network of servers is not cheap or easy, and VPN providers need to spend a lot of money and use many resources in order to offer a secure and efficient service. Free VPN solutions are very appealing, but they may come with many vulnerabilities. If you want to keep your online traffic protected, it is advisable to invest in a paid solution. The VPNs included in this list are known for their high security, good speed, reliable performance and good selection of servers. They also provide professional and dedicated customer service, which is something that is not available from most free solutions. Before we go through the best VPNs for Chrome, let’s take a look at the steps to set up a VPN on this platform.
Installing a VPN on Chromebook
The majority of VPN providers focus on offering custom clients for Mac and Windows, but they don’t offer apps specially designed for Chromebook. Due to this, you will need to set up the VPN manually on Chrome. Once you choose your VPN provider, you can get the server configurations from them. You need the following information: your username, password, server address and shared secret. Then, you can follow the below steps:
- Sign in to your Chromebook
- Click the status area, where you see your account picture. Then click Settings
- Click “Add connection” in the Internet connection section
- Next, click Add OpenVPN/L2TP
- You will see a box, enter the information required. Then click Connect
Prevent WebRTC Leaks
Certain apps, including those who support video and voice calls, rely on a feature called WebRTC, which runs in Chrome. Since this feature is built into Chrome and other browsers, it is not necessary to install additional plugins. The issue with WebRTC is that it could expose your real IP address, even if you are using a VPN. In order to avoid WebRTC leaks in Chrome, you can use an extension like WebRTC Network Limiter. After it is installed, right-click on its icon and then go to Options. Check the box next to “Use my proxy server (if present)” and then close the pop-up window to save the settings. This will help to ensure that your VPN keeps your true IP protected, without any WebRTC leaks to worry about.
ExpressVPN
There are many reasons why ExpressVPN is often listed as one of the best VPN services available. This provider offers excellent speeds, strong encryption and its customer service is available 24/7. Their apps are excellent and they are very easy to use so even if you are new in the world of VPNs, you won’t have any issue protecting your traffic and bypassing restrictions. ExpressVPN offers consistent performance and speeds and it is an effective solution to bypass censorship and geo-blocks.
NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs available and it offers a zero logs policy. That means that they don’t monitor or keep records of any aspect of your connection. You can browse the internet, stream or download content without worries. Your privacy is protected from eavesdroppers, hackers, your ISP and anyone who tries to access your data. They support advanced features like double VPN and their list of servers includes fast options that are ideal for streaming and gaming.
VyprVPN
Since VyprVPN has its own network of servers, it has greater control over the speed and performance of its service. They offer a remarkable technology known as Chameleon, which is designed to defeat firewalls and Deep Packet Inspection used to prevent the use of VPNs. Chameleon disguises your VPN traffic, making it practically impossible to block. The service works seamlessly and it provides access to a vast selection of servers around the world. Their customer service is also reliable and helpful.