A VPN browser extension allows you to access privacy tools that are only available for your browser. A lot of providers also offer additional plugins for browsers that can be used with their native VPN apps. The features, capabilities and user experience of these extensions can vary. What is a VPN browser extension then? What is it used for?
What’s a VPN browser extension?
A VPN browser extension (or add-on) is a browser plugin that allows you to quickly and easily connect to a VPN server. It’s very easy to use and only affects your browser traffic. VPN browser extensions hide your IP address and location, and keep your browsing private.
What is a VPN browser extension?
Any browser can have a VPN browser extension installed – Chrome Firefox Safari Safari Edge. This is a lightweight VPN application that affects only internet traffic. It makes it easy to connect to a VPN server and encrypt all traffic.
The plugin works only on a browser. Other activities such as torrenting and gaming are not affected. Some VPN browser extensions include features that prevent WebRTC leakage, block malicious websites and stop ad tracking. They also allow you to access streaming-optimized servers easily.
Are VPN browser extensions secure
VPN browser extensions may not be safe for everyone. Safe are browser plugins that do not have a connection to a reliable VPN provider. Many of them can be downloaded for free.
More than just unencrypted proxy servers. These proxies can inject ads and collect your data, while also giving you a false sense security and privacy.
The free VPN browser extensions business model collects your browsing data and then sells it to advertisers or other third parties. Secure VPN browser extensions are those that have been created by a trusted VPN company and do not store logs.
Let’s look at the safest and most effective VPN browser extensions available.
5 best VPN browser extensions
These extensions are the best VPN browser extensions available and work with every browser. These are the top 5 VPN browser extensions.
NordVPN Chrome extension
NordVPN’s highly-performing VPN extension, is among the best available. Firefox can also use the same plugin. It’s fast, easy to use, and has a pleasant user interface.
This VPN browser extension has the best features: it offers WebRTC leak protection, CyberSec malware prevention, and an ad-blocker.
It also has a location search feature and works well when you want to unblock streaming services such as Netflix.
NordVPN browser extension is limited in that it does not allow you to select specific servers or locations, such as states, regions or cities.
- 5200+ Global Servers in 59+ Countries
- CyberSec malware protection and ad blocking
- Next-generation encryption using double VPN servers
- VPN traffic is obscured by obfuscation technology
- Strict no-logs policy
- Uses Netflix for streaming
- P2P support is lightning fast
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark Chrome extension
Cure53, an independent cybersecurity firm, audited Surshark’s Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Both browser extensions stand out in terms privacy and security, according to the results.
It is simple to use and easy to connect. The UI is very intuitive and looks great.
This extension’s CleanWeb setting blocks malware, trackers, and ads when it comes to security. You will need to manually do this because there is no WebRTC leak prevention setting.
Surfshark is a growing VPN provider in the industry. They have proven their worth with essential privacy and security features on all of their apps.
- More than 3200+ global servers located in 60+ countries
- CleanWeb Ad-blocking feature
- OpenVPN offers strong encryption and security
- Whitelister, Multihop VPN and Kill Switch
- No-logs policy
- Uses Netflix for streaming
- Amazing speeds
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN Chrome extension
ExpressVPN offers a browser extension that works with Firefox and Chrome. The native desktop application must be installed on your device before you can add the plugin. The extension controls the application and connects to the VPN server.
This plugin encrypts all internet traffic, not just the browser. It may be a good thing depending on how you view it. It’s good for privacy and security.
ExpressVPN Chrome extension offers security settings that protect you online. It includes WebRTC leak protection and forces HTTPS everywhere. It also spoofs where you are located.
It is easy to select the location you want to connect and to also choose specific regions. It’s an excellent extension for people who desire total privacy and security.
- 160+ Locations and 3000+ Servers
- Strict No-Log policy
- Unlimited streaming (Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer)
- Strong military-grade AES256-bit key encryption
- Split tunneling, Kill Switch and RAM-disk Servers
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Support for Windows, MacOS and Linux
- Reliable connections and fast speeds
Private Internet Access VPN extension
Private Internet Access VPN Extension is extremely well-developed. There are many locations you can select from and you can pick the exact region you wish to connect.
WebRTC leaks can also be protected. There are many other privacy and security settings that can be used. You can block tracker and ads, protect your computer from malware, or even use the microphone security settings.
Whitelisting websites is another option if you don’t want to use a VPN extension.
The user interface isn’t intuitive, and it needs to be easier to identify the connection states. It’s an excellent choice overall.
- Block trackers and ads
- You can use it with up to 10 devices simultaneously
- Unlimited Bandwidth
- 3200+ Servers in 29 countries
- No Request or Traffic logs
- 7-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost Chrome extension
CyberGhost provides Chrome VPN extension that you can use for absolutely free. The plugin does not work with streaming services and is very limited in its functionality. There are only four countries you can choose from and no settings.
- United States
- Germany
- Netherlands
- Romania
CyberGhost’s native apps, however, offer much more. A strong AES256 bit encryption, streaming, torrenting, and a large server network that includes more than 5600+ servers across 90 countries.
This VPN extension is for people who only need a quick look online and don’t browse a lot.
- More than 90+ countries, and more than 6000+ servers
- Access to NoSpy servers
- No-logs policy
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Unblock streaming services
- Option for dedicated IP
- Strong AES 256-bit encryption
- IKEv2, WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPSec protocol support
How can I add a VPN extension for Chrome
It is easy to add any VPN extension in Chrome. Follow these steps.
- Open Chrome browser first
- Go to Chrome extension webstore at https://chrome.google.com/webstore/category/extensions
- Look for VPN browser extensions
- Click Add to Chrome, and then confirm by clicking the Add Extension button
It’s that easy. Your Chrome VPN extension is installed and ready to use in a matter of seconds.
Final thoughts
VPN browser extensions are lightweight and easy-to-use applications that work on your browser. This extension allows you to quickly and easily access unblocked content, while keeping your online activities safe and secure. VPN extensions are best used when you stream or browse online frequently.
