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Download a VPN for Linux

  • Lightning-fast connection speeds
  • Easy setup with a Linux app
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
Set up my VPN manually

How to install a VPN on Linux

Setting up Surfshark’s Linux GUI (graphical user interface) app is easy — when in doubt, be sure to consult our dedicated support guides:

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Exploring the benefits of Surfshark

Get an enhanced cybersecurity suite

Surfshark takes cybersecurity beyond VPN protection. With the Surfshark Starter plan, you also get our Ad Blocker, Cookie pop-up Blocker, and Alternative ID. Subscribing to Surfshark One expands your security with tools like Antivirus for malware detection and Alert for monitoring data leaks, while the One+ pack additionally includes the Incogni data removal service.

Get an enhanced cybersecurity suite

Connect to a vast network of servers

Connect to Surfshark’s network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries across the globe. No matter where you are, you’ll find an uncrowded VPN server close by for a fast and reliable connection.

Looking for the best server but not sure which location to pick? We’ve got you — just hit the Quick-connect button to automatically join the fastest server available.

Connect to a vast network of servers

Enjoy a smoother surfing experience

Leave distractions behind and ride the clean wave of uninterrupted browsing. Surfshark’s CleanWeb makes surfing the web a fun and secure adventure — it gets rid of annoying ads and cookie consent pop-ups, allows you to browse tracker-free, and notifies you about potential malware.

Enjoy a smoother surfing experience

Protect all your devices at once

Secure as many devices in your household as you’d like — all with a single subscription. Surfshark VPN natively supports the following platforms:

Or you can set up Surfshark VPN on your router and enjoy an optimized VPN experience on all your devices at once, including smart TVs, Nintendo SwitchXboxPlayStationOculus Quest, and Apple Vision Pro.

Protect all your devices

Protect yourself online with Surfshark VPN for Linux

Prevent activity tracking

Connecting your Linux PC to a VPN server is the key to staying safe online. Surfshark encrypts your traffic and hides your IP (Internet Protocol) address so neither we nor anyone else can see what you do online. 

Install with ease

Setting up a VPN on your Linux PC doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Surfshark’s complete security suite is extremely easy to install, giving your online security an instant boost.

Secure all your devices at once

Surfshark VPN offers unlimited simultaneous connections. With no impact on your internet speed, you can stay protected not just on your Linux PC but also on other devices or operating systems —  all at the same time.

Stop ads with CleanWeb

Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature acts as an ad blocker, preventing ads, trackers, and malware from compromising your security. This keeps your surfing experience smooth at all times.

Stay safe with Kill Switch

Kill Switch automatically disconnects you from the internet if your VPN connection drops. That way, no sensitive data or personal information is leaked. This is especially important when avoiding censorship and promoting freedom of speech.

Tap into an expansive server network

Surfshark offers more than 3,200 dedicated servers in 100 countries. If you ever experience a slowdown, finding a less crowded server is as simple as can be.

Disclaimer: Please note that using Surfshark services for any illegal activities is strictly forbidden and violates our Terms of Service. Make sure that any use of Surfshark services for your particular activities conforms to all relevant laws and regulations, including those of any service providers and websites you access using Surfshark.
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Should I use a free VPN for Linux?

No, you shouldn’t use a free VPN on your Linux PC — or any other device, for that matter. While paid VPNs like Surfshark take protecting your privacy seriously, free VPNs pose loads of security risks. In 2022 alone, the data of 25 million users was leaked due to free VPNs’ flawed security measures. Don’t risk your privacy — choose Surfshark instead.

Should I use a free VPN for Linux?

Audited and certified security

At Surfshark, we’re committed to your online security and privacy. Our VPN has undergone numerous independent audits to ensure we provide effective, trustworthy VPN software for Linux. 

Warrant canary

Warrant canary

To prioritize user privacy, we’ve prepared a warrant canary to show we’ve never faced a data breach or government order to share private information.

Deloitte audit

Deloitte audit

A Deloitte report has verified the quality and effectiveness of our VPN server configuration, deployment process, API (Application Programming Interface), and more.

Privacy policy

Privacy policy

We aim to give our users total privacy, period. Our privacy policy details our commitment to refrain from logging any information that could let anyone see your online activity. 

Testimonials proving excellence

At Surfshark, we strive to offer a hassle-free experience for all our users. But don’t just take our word for it — here’s what the world has to say about us.

The reviews highlighted in this section were selected from publicly available posts on social media platforms. They reflect the opinions of individual users at the time of posting and may not represent the full range of our product features and qualities.
“Surfshark is a highly polished and powerful VPN that competes with the very best premium providers, all while offering a seriously tempting price point.”
“Surfshark is one of the best VPN services, comes crammed with features, runs on almost anything, and has some of the best download speeds around.”
“Surfshark is an excellent, well-rounded virtual private network that consistently ranks as one of CNET’s best VPNs.”
The reviews quoted on this section have been published by media outlets associated with Surfshark through affiliate partnerships. Their recommendations are based on their own independent research and insights to ensure value for the readers.

I have been using Surfshark since I got it and I love it!

MRWHOSETHEBOSS 20.2M subscribers

When I am traveling, I use Surfshark to access the internet quickly and securely, works like a treat in China.

SAM CHUI 3.61M subscribers

We love Surfshark because it is an easy-to-use app that you can download on all your devices.

MAX & OCCY 265K subscribers
The reviews quoted on this section have been published by media outlets associated with Surfshark through affiliate partnerships. Their recommendations are based on their own independent research and insights to ensure value for the readers.

“This is my first year and I absolutely love it. The fact I can have a good antivirus, great VPN, and incognito for like $120 a year is great.”

Open in Reddit

“I’ve been using Surfshark for 4 years on Android and ChromeOS with zero issues, it’s an absolute bargain”

Open in Reddit

“I’ve had it for 3 years and just renewed it for the next 2 years. I never have any issues with it and get my full internet speed..”

Open in Reddit
The reviews highlighted in this section were selected from publicly available posts on social media platforms. They reflect the opinions of individual users at the time of posting and may not represent the full range of our product features and qualities.
FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

System requirements for Linux VPN

While our Linux app works across most distributions and desktop environments, we’ve thoroughly tested it with the following:

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Linux VPN FAQs

Yes, a virtual private network is an essential security tool for all devices and operating systems, including Linux. A Linux VPN will encrypt your internet traffic, preventing your ISP or other parties from monitoring your browsing activity.

Many Linux distributions include VPN functionality through the Network Manager, but this isn’t the same as having a standalone VPN service. While you can set up a VPN manually, you’ll still need a VPN provider and server access, making a dedicated Linux VPN client the better choice for most users.

Ubuntu offers built-in VPN capabilities through its network settings but doesn’t provide VPN servers or advanced features like a kill switch. To maximize privacy and security, it’s recommended to use a paid VPN service, such as Surfshark, on Ubuntu.

To enable Surfshark VPN on Linux, follow the instructions on our support page. If you’re using the legacy app, check our dedicated support guide — but keep in mind that new features are only available in our GUI app.

Free VPNs for Linux are not recommended due to significant limitations:

  • Limited servers and slower speeds compared to paid VPNs;
  • Lacking security features like a kill switch;
  • Potential privacy risks from ads or data sales;
  • Insufficient resources for maintaining full security;
  • Risks of data leaks or malware.

Paid VPNs, such as Surfshark, are more reliable, offering advanced security, a smooth user interface, and risk-free trials like a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To connect to a VPN using the Linux Network Manager:

  1. Obtain VPN credentials by subscribing to a service like Surfshark.
  2. Download configuration files provided by your VPN service.
  3. Install and configure the Network Manager for VPN use.
  4. Test your connection using our IP leak test.

For step-by-step instructions, check out our comprehensive guide.

To use the Linux Terminal for VPN connections:

  1. Obtain credentials from your VPN provider.
  2. Install the OpenVPN package.
  3. Download the necessary configuration files from your provider.
  4. Use the terminal to connect to the VPN.
  5. Connect to a specific server.

For additional details, refer to our setup instructions.

To download a VPN for Linux, follow Surfshark’s how-to guide for detailed setup instructions and step-by-step guidance.

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