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Surfshark VPN Linux app dashboard showing a safe connection to the UK server.

A fast, secure VPN for Linux

Lightweight, easy-to-use protection with native Linux support

Lightning-fast speeds for coding, streaming, and browsing

Full-featured Linux app with simple setup and full control

Strict no-logs policy to keep your activity private

Get Surfshark

Set up VPN manually

How to install a VPN on Linux

Setting up Surfshark’s Linux GUI (Graphical User Interface) app is easy with our dedicated VPN (Virtual Private Network) support guides:

How to set up Surfshark VPN on Linux

How to set up a manual Surfshark VPN connection on Linux

SECURE YOUR INTERNET CONNECTION

Try Surfshark VPN
for 30 days risk-free

Explore the fastest VPN on the market risk-free with Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not fully satisfied, cancel within 30 days for a full refund.

Get Surfshark

Install Surfshark on all your devices

Want to protect more than your Linux device? Surfshark offers a secure connection on your favorite operating systems. Select an icon to visit the dedicated VPN download page.

Windows macOS Android iOS Chrome Firefox Edge Apple TV FireTV

From smart TVs to mobile apps, you can enjoy Surfshark’s VPN service wherever you browse. Devices like gaming consoles and operating systems that don’t natively support VPN connections can still be protected via a VPN router.

Protect your Linux device with Surfshark VPN

Combat activity tracking

Connecting your Linux PC to a VPN server is key to greater safety 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

The best Linux VPN should make setup a breeze. Surfshark’s Linux app is easy to install, thanks to our intuitive GUI. With Auto connect on, you can quickly get a masked IP address and VPN encryption on your preferred Linux distro.

Secure all your devices at once

Surfshark VPN offers unlimited simultaneous connections. Stay protected on your Linux device and other operating systems at the same time. With unlimited bandwidth, you can enjoy lightning-fast speeds wherever you connect.

Stop ads with CleanWeb

Leave distractions behind and ride the clean wave of uninterrupted browsing. Surfshark’s Clean Web blocks annoying ads, trackers, and malicious sites to keep your surfing experience smooth.

Stay safe with a kill switch

Surfshark’s kill switch automatically disconnects you from the internet if your VPN drops. The kill switch helps prevent your sensitive data from leaking while your VPN session is active.*

Tap into an expansive server network

Surfshark has more than 4,500 dedicated servers in 100 countries. If you ever experience a slowdown, finding a less crowded VPN server close to you on our Linux client is simple.

Surf at higher speeds

A VPN routes your traffic through a separate server, so internet speeds naturally decrease slightly. However, independent speed tests found Surfshark to be the fastest Linux VPN, making it helpful for safer browsing with fewer speed bumps.

Safeguard your streaming

Surfshark’s secure protocols let you privately access streaming platforms. Traveling abroad? Get to your favorite streaming site as if you were at home. Our Linux VPN is great for safer online gaming, too.

Get an enhanced cybersecurity suite

Surfshark gives you much more than a VPN connection.

Our Starter plan has advanced tools like an alternative email generator. Higher tiers include an antivirus, data leak monitoring tool, and the Incogni data removal service.

*Surfshark’s kill switch is available in the Snap (Snapcraft) and .deb packages, but not in the Flatpak package.

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.

Surfshark vs. free Linux VPN services

A free Linux VPN may sound tempting, but these often compromise your privacy and performance. For a more secure and private VPN session, Surfshark’s Linux app is the smarter choice.

	Free Linux VPNs	Surfshark for Linux
Data collection risk	High: free options often log browsing history and sell data to third parties	Low: Surfshark’s strict no-logs policy is independently verified
Speed and bandwidth	Restricted: speed throttling and bandwidth caps are common	Unlimited: no bandwidth or speed restrictions are in place
Ads and trackers	Common: free tools may inject ads or allow trackers	Blocked: Clean Web offers built-in ad and tracker blocking
Customer support	Limited: usually lack live help and have slow response times	24/7: email and live chat support are available
VPN server locations	Few: frequently have congested servers that slow your connection	Thousands: lets you connect to 4,500+ high-speed servers in 100 countries
Encryption	Unreliable: may lack secure encryption protocols	Strong: robust encryption provides increased privacy protection

See why millions trust Surfshark

Check out what users and tech experts around the world have to say about Surfshark.

Teshir Jennifer

@memesfordigital

All the VPNs you mentioned are good. But Surfshark is the one I recommend in person for the best overall.

1:08 PM · Jul 28, 2024

Morgan Leggett

@YouBettaLeggett

I’ve had SurfShark for years. It’s amazing.

12:28 AM · Aug 14, 2024

Eakan

@eakangk

Trialling out @surfshark’s IP rotation. It is doing it pretty well. Seamless in the background.

3:20 PM · Oct 26, 2024

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 page 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

“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

FT 1000: Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies 2024

Tech Advisor Editors’ Choice 2024

TechRadar Recommended 2024

Surfshark Antivirus AV-TEST Top Product 2024

Independent’s Editor’s Choice Best Value VPN 2023

Surfshark supports the open internet

We partner with digital rights organizations to promote online freedom and keep the internet safe and accessible to all.

System requirements for Linux VPN

Our Linux app works across most distributions and desktop environments, so your Linux distro is likely covered. Nevertheless, we’ve thoroughly tested it with the following:

Supported distros

Debian 11 or higher

Ubuntu 20.04 or higher

MINT 20 or higher

Supported desktop environments

GNOME

KDE

XFCE

Supported service manager

Systemd or SysVinit

Network Manager 1.20.0 or higher

Supported architecture

AMD64

ARM64

FAQ

Do I need a VPN with Linux?

Yes, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an essential security tool for all devices and operating systems, including Linux. A Linux VPN encrypts your internet traffic, preventing your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or other parties from monitoring your browsing activity.

Does Linux have a built-in VPN?

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 client the better choice for most users.

Does Ubuntu have a VPN?

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

How do I enable a VPN on Linux?

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

What is the best free VPN for Linux?

A free VPN for Linux isn’t recommended, as these often come with the following limitations:

Limited servers and slower speeds compared to paid VPNs;
Lack of features like a kill switch or unlimited simultaneous connections;
Potential privacy risks from ads or data sales;
Risks of data leaks, malware, or other security vulnerabilities.

The best Linux VPN is likely a paid solution like Surfshark. These tools offer advanced security features, a smooth network interface, a browser extension, and a risk-free money-back guarantee. Free services tend to lack at least one of these.

How can I connect to a VPN using the Linux Network Manager?

To connect to a VPN using the Linux Network Manager, Linux users should:

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

For step-by-step instructions on getting your Linux client, check out our comprehensive guide.

How can I connect to a VPN using the Linux Terminal?

To use the Linux Terminal for VPN connections, Linux users should:

Obtain credentials from your VPN provider.
Install OpenVPN.
Download the necessary configuration files from your provider.
Use the terminal to connect to the VPN.
Connect to a specific server.

For additional details, refer to our setup instructions.

Where do I get a Linux VPN download?

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

A fast, secure VPN for Linux

How to install a VPN on Linux

Try Surfshark VPN
for 30 days risk-free

Install Surfshark on all your devices

Your web, your way