The Best VPN Extensions for Google Chrome of 2020

How Does a Chrome VPN Work?

VPNs have servers located all over the world that allow you to appear as though you are browsing the internet in another country. Though many VPNs are known to be slow and heavy, Chrome VPNs are known for their speed. They also have a reputation for being easy to set up and use. Top-notch services, such as those listed below, also have high encryption standards and trustworthy privacy policies, as well as malware protection. It’s important to note the difference between Chrome VPNs and Chrome VPN extensions, which don't necessarily offer these top-notch services. We’ll discuss the differences later on.

Setting up a Chrome VPN

Setting up a VPN is quick and simple. Here's a step-by-step guide for those who need one:

1. Select a Chrome VPN from any of the top 5 recommendations below.
2. Subscribe to the service you determine best suits your needs.
3. Download and install the VPN.
4. Login using your username and password.
5. Select a server in the desired location.
6. Connect to your VPN and start browsing the internet.

Top 5 Chrome VPNs

1. ExpressVPN  

ExpressVPN offers 24/7 live chat support, is easy to use and is great for viewing geo-restricted content as it has fast servers in 94 countries from all over the world.

Although Express offers good value for your money, it is more expensive than its competitors, but it does offer a free trial. It should be noted that you need the Express VPN desktop app installed in order to run the Express VPN browser extension.

ExpressVPN Visit Site

2. Hotspot Shield

This service, while limited in configuration options, offers fast download speeds and 256-bit encryption. Hotspot Shield connects you automatically to the server with the fastest connection speed. A free 7-day trial is available for those interested in learning more about Hotspot Shield's Chrome VPN. There are several paid plans which are a bit more expensive in comparison the other solutions listed here.

Hotspot Shield Visit Site

3. NordVPN

Although it's not easy to find on the website, this service offers a 3-day free trial, with several different paid plans. NordVPN doesn't offer a free Chrome extension, so it's important that you look carefully at the paid subscriptions or use the free trial before committing to a plan.

Encryption is super secure with NordVPN, with pro features including VPN into the Tor browser and double encryption. Its servers are also pretty fast, so you can also stream in high definition.

NordVPN Visit Site

4. CyberGhost

With servers in 56 countries, Cyberghost is ideal for accessing content in regions on the other side of the world. Connections are fast enough to allow streaming in high definition, and the VPN ensures that your data is kept private. It's user-friendly with a 30-day money back guarantee. Cyberghost has a free version also available as a Chrome extension, which has some encryption capabilities, although they are still limited to your browsing activities only. The free version is also not as fast as the paid version.

Cyber Ghost Visit Site

5. PureVPN

A Hong-Kong based company, PureVPN's Chrome service offers fast service in more than 750 servers in over 141 countries, which is probably more than most providers. It also allows 5 simultaneous connections.

In terms of security, this provider supports all levels of encryption, (including OpenVPN), DDoS protection, and anonymous payment methods. It also collects information about when users connect to the service, which will concern hard-core privacy enthusiasts.

Pure VPN Visit Site

What Can You Do with a Chrome VPN?

VPNs are useful for a wide variety of internet activities. After installing a Chrome VPN, you'll be able to watch foreign TV channels, sports competitions, or other channels restricted by any geographic region. You'll also be able to browse anonymously, and ensure protection from data collection from your ISP while browsing online. That includes hackers looking for unsuspecting victims on public WiFi. If you pay for a VPN solution with strict privacy policies, you can also rest assured that your ISP isn't able to collect data about your login times and activity.

Chrome VPN Extension vs Chrome VPN

There is a significant difference between Chrome VPN and a Chrome VPN extension. A Chrome VPN extension is a proxy or an intermediary, not an actual VPN. Whereas a VPN app works at the operating system level and encrypts all traffic, a VPN extension is more limited. It does not encrypt all traffic that enters and leaves the device you are using, whether it be a PC, laptop, or mobile device. Since it can only forward the traffic through a proxy server, it is therefore less secure. The main advantage of extensions is that they are almost always free, while VPNs are paid subscription services.

What You Need to Know About Free VPN Services

Free VPN services, such as Chrome VPN extensions, offer a service that isn't as secure as leading paid VPN services. Chrome VPN extensions are proxies, rather than full service VPNs.

Free services are also slower than paid ones, since they share space with other free users, whereas paid services reinvest that money into more servers and higher bandwidth. Free providers often skimp on service, are filled with ads, and their servers may be down occasionally.

Get Started With a Google Chrome VPN

There are many Chrome VPNs on the market offering fast connections, iron-clad security and reliable privacy policies. We've listed the top VPNs here in order for you to make the best choice depending on your needs. Remember that there are differences in the speed, security and reliability of their privacy policies. If you’re concerned with your privacy, understand the differences in security that different solutions offer, and the price you pay for better protection. Regardless of the provider you ultimately choose, this guide will help you choose the best VPN for your needs.