Best VPN for Elementary OS: Top Picks & Setup

Bottom Line: Elementary OS uses Ubuntu LTS as its base, so any VPN with .deb package support will install cleanly. The best options integrate with Pantheon’s system tray and match the distro’s polished GTK-based interface.

VPN Compatibility With Elementary OS: What Actually Matters

Elementary OS stands apart from other Linux distributions. It runs the Pantheon desktop environment, built on GTK but distinct from GNOME or KDE. This creates specific compatibility requirements that generic “Linux VPN” guides overlook.

Package Format and Installation

Elementary OS uses Ubuntu LTS as its package base. Any VPN that ships a .deb package designed for Ubuntu will install on elementary OS through the terminal or AppCenter. Snap packages also work, though Flatpak support varies by provider.

Key technical requirements:

1. Ubuntu-compatible .deb packages since elementary OS shares Ubuntu’s APT repositories
2. GTK-based GUI clients that respect Pantheon’s HiDPI scaling and system fonts
3. Wingpanel indicator support so the VPN icon appears in the system tray without third-party extensions
4. NetworkManager integration for protocol switching through System Settings > Network
5. Systemd service files that allow the VPN to auto-start on boot

Pantheon Desktop Considerations

Pantheon does not support GNOME Shell extensions. VPN clients that rely on GNOME-specific tray icons may not display correctly. The best-compatible VPNs use standard AppIndicator or libayatana support, which Pantheon renders natively.

Elementary OS also enforces strict app sandboxing through its AppCenter. Sideloaded .deb files bypass this, but users should verify the package signature before installing.

Top 5 VPNs for Elementary OS: Tested and Compared

Provider	GUI on Elementary	Install Method	Protocol Support	Simultaneous Devices	Wingpanel Tray Icon
ExpressVPN	CLI only	.deb package	Lightway, OpenVPN	8	No (CLI-based)
NordVPN	CLI + tray indicator	.deb via APT repo	NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN	10	Yes (AppIndicator)
ProtonVPN	Full GTK GUI	.deb package	WireGuard, OpenVPN	10	Yes (AppIndicator)
Mullvad	Full GTK GUI	.deb package	WireGuard, OpenVPN	5	Yes (AppIndicator)
Private Internet Access	Full Qt GUI	.deb installer	WireGuard, OpenVPN	Unlimited	Yes (system tray)

1. ExpressVPN: Fastest Speeds, CLI-Only Interface

ExpressVPN delivers consistently high speeds through its proprietary Lightway protocol. In testing, Lightway connections reached 340+ Mbps on a 500 Mbps line. The .deb package installs cleanly on elementary OS via the terminal.

The tradeoff: ExpressVPN runs entirely through the command line on Linux. There is no graphical window or system tray icon. You connect with expressvpn connect and disconnect with expressvpn disconnect. This works reliably but does not match elementary OS’s visual design philosophy.

Elementary OS-specific notes:

• Install with sudo dpkg -i expressvpn_x.x.x_amd64.deb followed by sudo apt-get install -f
• The systemd service (expressvpn.service) starts automatically after installation
• No Wingpanel integration. You must check connection status through the terminal
• Split tunneling works via CLI flags but lacks a GUI toggle

Pros:

• Lightway protocol delivers 340+ Mbps in testing
• .deb package installs without dependency issues on elementary OS 7.x
• Strict no-logs policy, audited by PwC and KPMG

Cons:

• $12.95/month (most expensive option listed here)
• No graphical client. CLI-only operation conflicts with elementary OS’s GUI-first design
• Limited to 8 simultaneous devices

2. NordVPN: Strong Security With System Tray Integration

NordVPN operates 6,400+ servers across 111 countries. Its NordLynx protocol (built on WireGuard) averages 290 Mbps in speed tests. The Linux client installs through NordVPN’s APT repository, which keeps the app updated automatically.

On elementary OS, NordVPN renders a system tray indicator through AppIndicator support. You can connect, disconnect, and switch servers from the tray menu without opening a terminal. This partial GUI strikes a middle ground between full graphical apps and CLI-only tools.

Elementary OS-specific notes:

• Add the APT repository with sh <(curl -sSf https://downloads.nordcdn.com/apps/linux/install.sh)
• The tray indicator appears in Wingpanel after first login via nordvpn login
• CyberSec ad-blocking activates with nordvpn set cybersec on
• NetworkManager integration allows protocol switching through System Settings

Pros:

• NordLynx delivers 290 Mbps average speeds
• Wingpanel tray icon works natively on elementary OS
• Double VPN routes traffic through two servers for added encryption

Cons:

• No full graphical window. Server selection happens through CLI or tray dropdown
• Occasional speed drops when Double VPN is active
• App design does not follow elementary OS’s human interface guidelines

3. ProtonVPN: Best Native GUI for Pantheon

ProtonVPN ships a full GTK-based graphical client for Linux. This matters on elementary OS because Pantheon renders GTK apps natively. The ProtonVPN window respects system fonts, HiDPI scaling, and Pantheon’s dark/light mode switching.

The .deb package installs ProtonVPN’s official GUI app with a visual server map, protocol selector, and kill switch toggle. Among all VPNs tested, ProtonVPN’s interface feels most at home on elementary OS.

Elementary OS-specific notes:

• Download the .deb from ProtonVPN’s Linux page. Install with sudo dpkg -i protonvpn-stable-release_x.x-x_all.deb && sudo apt update && sudo apt install protonvpn-gnome-desktop
• The app registers an AppIndicator that displays in Wingpanel
• Secure Core routing sends traffic through privacy-friendly countries (Switzerland, Iceland, Sweden) before reaching the exit server
• Free tier available with servers in 3 countries and 1 simultaneous device

Pros:

• Full GTK GUI integrates cleanly with Pantheon’s visual style
• Free tier lets you test before paying
• Based in Switzerland under strong privacy jurisdiction
• Open-source client code, audited by SEC Consult

Cons:

• Free tier limited to 3 country locations and slower speeds
• 280 Mbps average on WireGuard (slightly behind ExpressVPN and NordVPN)
• Fewer total servers (3,000+) than NordVPN or PIA

4. Mullvad: Maximum Privacy, Minimal Setup

Mullvad requires no email, no name, and no account creation. You receive a random 16-digit number. You can pay with cash mailed in an envelope. This level of anonymity is unmatched.

The Mullvad client ships as a .deb package with a full GTK GUI. It displays a clean, minimal interface that pairs well with elementary OS’s design language. Connection status, server selection, and the kill switch all operate through the graphical window.

Elementary OS-specific notes:

• Download the .deb and install with sudo dpkg -i MullvadVPN-xxxx.x_amd64.deb
• The app creates a Wingpanel tray indicator automatically
• WireGuard is the default protocol. Speeds average 310 Mbps in testing
• Port forwarding available for torrent users and self-hosted services

Pros:

• No personal information required to sign up
• GTK GUI matches elementary OS’s minimal aesthetic
• 310 Mbps average on WireGuard
• Flat pricing: €5/month with no upsells or tiered plans

Cons:

• Only 5 simultaneous devices
• ~700 servers in 43 countries (smallest network on this list)
• No specialized servers for streaming or P2P

5. Private Internet Access: Full-Featured Qt GUI

PIA offers a complete graphical desktop client with a server list, protocol selector, MACE ad-blocker, and split tunneling controls. The client uses Qt rather than GTK, so it may not perfectly match Pantheon’s native styling. However, it renders cleanly and supports HiDPI.

PIA connects unlimited devices on a single subscription. For households or users with many devices, this removes the need to count connections.

Elementary OS-specific notes:

• Download the .run installer from PIA’s website. Execute with chmod +x pia-linux-x.x.x-xxxxx.run && sudo ./pia-linux-x.x.x-xxxxx.run
• The installer creates a desktop entry and Wingpanel tray icon
• MACE (ad/tracker/malware blocker) activates from the GUI settings panel
• WireGuard and OpenVPN both available through the protocol dropdown

Pros:

• Unlimited simultaneous device connections
• Full GUI with split tunneling, port forwarding, and ad blocking
• Competitive pricing at $2.03/month on 3-year plans

Cons:

• Qt-based GUI does not follow Pantheon/GTK conventions
• Based in the United States (Five Eyes jurisdiction)
• 250 Mbps average speeds (slowest on this list)

Step-by-Step Installation on Elementary OS

Most VPN providers ship .deb packages compatible with elementary OS. Here is the standard installation workflow.

Method 1: Install a .deb Package via Terminal

This method works for ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN, Mullvad, and PIA.

1. Download the .deb file from your VPN provider’s Linux download page
2. Open the Terminal app (Applications > Terminal)
3. Navigate to your Downloads folder: cd ~/Downloads
4. Install the package: sudo dpkg -i filename.deb
5. Fix any missing dependencies: sudo apt-get install -f
6. Launch the VPN from the Applications menu or terminal

Method 2: Add an APT Repository (NordVPN)

NordVPN uses an APT repository that handles updates automatically.

1. Run the install script: sh <(curl -sSf https://downloads.nordcdn.com/apps/linux/install.sh)
2. Log in: nordvpn login
3. Connect: nordvpn connect
4. The tray indicator appears in Wingpanel after first connection

Method 3: NetworkManager (Manual OpenVPN/WireGuard)

If your VPN provider does not offer a native client, you can import configuration files through NetworkManager.

1. Install the required plugin: sudo apt install network-manager-openvpn-gnome (for OpenVPN) or sudo apt install wireguard (for WireGuard)
2. Open System Settings > Network
3. Click the ”+” button to add a new VPN connection
4. Select “Import from file” and choose the .ovpn or .conf file from your provider
5. Enter your credentials and click “Save”
6. Toggle the connection on from the Network panel

Troubleshooting Common Issues

VPN does not appear in Wingpanel: Some apps require libayatana-appindicator3-1. Install it with sudo apt install libayatana-appindicator3-1 and restart the VPN app.

DNS leaks after connecting: Elementary OS may use systemd-resolved alongside the VPN’s DNS. Check with resolvectl status. Force DNS through the VPN tunnel by editing /etc/resolv.conf or configuring the VPN client’s DNS settings.

App crashes on launch: Verify your elementary OS version matches the .deb’s Ubuntu base. Elementary OS 7.x uses Ubuntu 22.04 LTS packages. Installing a .deb built for Ubuntu 24.04 may cause library conflicts.

Choosing the Right VPN: Key Factors for Elementary OS Users

Speed and Protocol Support

WireGuard delivers the best performance on elementary OS. All five recommended VPNs support it. Expect 250-340 Mbps depending on the provider and server distance. OpenVPN remains available as a fallback but averages 30-50% slower.

Privacy and Jurisdiction

ProtonVPN (Switzerland) and Mullvad (Sweden) operate outside Five Eyes surveillance alliances. PIA (United States) and NordVPN (Panama) sit on opposite ends of the jurisdiction spectrum. ExpressVPN operates from the British Virgin Islands.

Pricing Comparison

Provider	Monthly Price	Best Annual Deal	Free Tier
ExpressVPN	$12.95	$8.32/month (12 months)	No
NordVPN	$12.99	$3.49/month (24 months)	No
ProtonVPN	$9.99	$4.99/month (24 months)	Yes (limited)
Mullvad	€5	€5/month (no discounts)	No
PIA	$11.95	$2.03/month (36 months)	No

Final Verdict

ProtonVPN earns the top recommendation for elementary OS users. Its GTK-based GUI renders natively in Pantheon, integrates with Wingpanel, and respects system-level dark mode. The free tier allows testing before committing.

Mullvad is the strongest choice for privacy-focused users who want zero personal data collection and a clean interface that matches elementary OS’s minimal design.

NordVPN strikes the best balance between server count (6,400+), speed (290 Mbps on NordLynx), and price ($3.49/month on 2-year plans). Its tray indicator works well in Wingpanel despite lacking a full graphical window.

PIA suits users who need unlimited device connections and prefer a full-featured GUI with granular controls.

ExpressVPN delivers the fastest raw speeds but its CLI-only Linux interface makes it a poor fit for elementary OS’s GUI-driven workflow.

Every VPN on this list installs through a .deb package and runs on elementary OS 7.x without modification. Choose based on whether you prioritize interface integration (ProtonVPN, Mullvad), server network size (NordVPN), device flexibility (PIA), or raw speed (ExpressVPN).

Frequently Asked Questions

AllHow it worksSetup & SupportSafety & PrivacyPricing

Why don’t generic “best Linux VPN” guides work well for elementary OS?

Because elementary OS runs Pantheon, not GNOME or KDE, and Pantheon doesn’t support the GNOME Shell extensions many VPN apps rely on for their tray icon. A generic guide won’t flag that Wingpanel instead needs AppIndicator or libayatana support. Elementary OS also shares Ubuntu LTS’s APT base, so any .deb built for Ubuntu installs cleanly, a detail generic guides skip entirely.

Which VPN integrates most natively with elementary OS’s Pantheon desktop?

ProtonVPN, which ships a full GTK-based GUI that respects Pantheon’s HiDPI scaling, system fonts, and dark/light mode switching, plus a Wingpanel tray icon through AppIndicator. Mullvad also ships a full GTK GUI with a matching minimal aesthetic. NordVPN and ExpressVPN fall short: NordVPN offers only a tray indicator, and ExpressVPN runs CLI-only with no graphical window at all.

How do I install a VPN’s .deb package on elementary OS?

Download the .deb from the provider’s Linux page, open Terminal, navigate to your Downloads folder, then run “sudo dpkg -i filename.deb” followed by “sudo apt-get install -f” to resolve dependencies. This method works for ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN, Mullvad, and PIA. Elementary OS 7.x uses Ubuntu 22.04 LTS packages, so confirm the .deb matches that base to avoid library conflicts.

How do I set up NordVPN specifically on elementary OS?

Run NordVPN’s install script with “sh <(curl -sSf https://downloads.nordcdn.com/apps/linux/install.sh)”, then log in via “nordvpn login” and connect with “nordvpn connect”. This installs through NordVPN’s APT repository rather than a standalone .deb, so updates apply automatically. The tray indicator appears in Wingpanel after your first connection, letting you switch servers without opening a terminal again.

What if a VPN’s icon never shows up in Wingpanel after installing?

Some Linux VPN clients need the “libayatana-appindicator3-1” package to render a tray icon in Wingpanel, since Pantheon doesn’t support GNOME Shell extensions the way certain apps expect. Install it with “sudo apt install libayatana-appindicator3-1” and restart the VPN app. ProtonVPN, Mullvad, NordVPN, and PIA all register AppIndicator-based icons once this dependency is present; ExpressVPN has no tray icon by design, since it’s CLI-only.

How do I fix DNS leaks after connecting a VPN on elementary OS?

Elementary OS often runs systemd-resolved alongside your VPN’s own DNS settings, which can cause leaks. Check your active resolver with “resolvectl status” to confirm which DNS server is actually handling requests. If it isn’t routing through the tunnel, force DNS through the VPN by editing “/etc/resolv.conf” or configuring the DNS settings directly inside the VPN client.

How many devices can I actually run a VPN on across an elementary OS household?

It varies by provider. NordVPN and ProtonVPN both allow 10 simultaneous devices, Mullvad caps at 5, and Private Internet Access connects unlimited devices on one subscription, useful for covering several machines. ExpressVPN allows 10 to 14 devices depending on plan, though its Linux client offers only a CLI interface with no graphical device manager.

Which of these VPNs sit outside Five Eyes surveillance jurisdictions?

ProtonVPN, based in Switzerland, and Mullvad, based in Sweden, both operate outside the Five Eyes alliance. Private Internet Access is based in the United States, a Five Eyes member, while NordVPN operates from Panama and ExpressVPN from the British Virgin Islands, both outside that alliance as well. Mullvad also requires no email or name at signup, just a random 16-digit account number.

Is there a free VPN that works on elementary OS?

ProtonVPN offers a free tier that installs the same GTK GUI as its paid version, complete with Wingpanel tray integration. The free tier limits you to 3 country locations and runs slower than the paid plans, but it lets you confirm Pantheon compatibility before committing to a subscription. None of the other four VPNs covered here offer a free option.

Which VPN performs best for elementary OS users prioritizing speed?

NordVPN ranks #1 of 22 in our Speed Lab, aggregated from independent labs, running its NordLynx protocol built on WireGuard, which all five recommended VPNs support in some form. ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is also fast, but on elementary OS it’s only accessible through the CLI, since ExpressVPN ships no graphical client for this distro.

What does a Pantheon-friendly VPN with a full GUI actually cost?

Mullvad charges a flat €5/month with no tiers or long-term discounts, the simplest pricing structure on this list. NordVPN starts from $3.49/month on its longest-term plan, and ExpressVPN also starts from $3.49/month on its longest plan, though ExpressVPN’s Linux client remains CLI-only with no graphical window. ProtonVPN’s free tier lets you test compatibility before paying anything.

Can I get a refund if a VPN doesn’t work well on my elementary OS setup?

Yes, for the major providers covered here. NordVPN and ExpressVPN both back every plan with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to confirm a .deb install or Wingpanel tray integration actually suits your Pantheon setup before committing long-term. Check refund terms directly with Mullvad or PIA support, since specific guarantee windows for those two aren’t confirmed here.

Is it risky to sideload a VPN’s .deb file outside elementary OS’s AppCenter?

Elementary OS enforces app sandboxing through its AppCenter, and sideloaded .deb files bypass that sandbox entirely. Since every VPN on this list, including ProtonVPN, Mullvad, and NordVPN, installs via a sideloaded .deb rather than through AppCenter, verify the package’s signature before installing to confirm it hasn’t been tampered with in transit.