Best VPN for Iran: Beat Internet Censorship and Stay Protected

No one’s a fan of having their favorite sites blocked or being cut off from communication with their loved ones. 

How do you help yourself in a country with heavy censorship, like Iran, where the government is more than happy to enforce it? Iran’s online freedom is low—17 out of 100 on the Freedom House index. Political rights and civil liberties are heavily restricted.

We have the answer: you just need a trusted VPN. Keep reading to learn about the Best VPNs for Iran.

Why Do You Need A VPN In Iran?

Using a VPN in Iran isn’t as simple as bypassing restrictions. There are many hurdles and risks along the way.

But before we get to how to deal with those, let’s talk about why you need VPNs in a country like Iran.

• Internet Censorship: It’s not just you, every Iranian deals with intense internet censorship every day. The government goes out of its way to block many sites and social media platforms, making it tough to browse freely. Want to access Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram? You’ll need a VPN to get around these blocks.
• Data Security: Your privacy is at risk online in Iran. The government uses many tools to monitor internet activity. Do you want to protect your personal information? VPNs can help with that. They encrypt your internet traffic. This encryption makes it harder for the government to see what you do online. A good VPN helps keep your communications and personal data safe.
• Public Wi-Fi Safeguard: You’re not just being watched by sneaky hackers when you use public Wi-Fi in Iran. Government agencies are also likely keeping an eye on you. Your data has a high chance of being leaked, no matter what you do, unless you use a VPN.
• Torrenting Files: Sometimes your favorite streaming site won’t always have your back, especially with Iran’s internet getting in the way. Torrenting is your next best option, and it lets you watch things buffer-free. But this sort of thing can easily get you in legal trouble—so using VPN with those is a must. VPNs with P2P networking support are the best.

Now check the best VPN for Iran. We have picked for every platform. Let’s get right to it. We’ll walk you through the options for every platform.

Top VPNs For PC In Iran

We’ll start with PCs, but you can keep scrolling to check out options for iOS and Android. 

Keep in mind that all of our picks are based on the most important criteria: Privacy and the ability to bypass blocked sites.

Besides those, we’ve picked ones with a lot of options, so you can find ones that are perfect for you.

1. Vipiyan VPN

Let’s start with our favorite suggestion: Vipiyan VPN. It comes with the best protocols and encryption you can get, the Iranian government’s efforts are no match for it. 

Even when the Internet is in a tighter lockdown, you can browse in peace. The PC version also performs well, without getting in the way.

Key Features

• Dedicated File Protection: Keeps you safe both online and offline.
• Seamless Setup: Gets up and running quickly, no permissions needed.
• Large Selection Of Servers: Connects with countries close to and far from Iran. 

Pros

• Minimal downtimes.
• Streams without any buffering.
• Easy to activate.
• No log policy.
• Cross-platform support.

Cons

• App UI could be better.

2. Privado VPN

Privado’s best aspects are the extremely strong protection and MACE. 

No matter where you’re living within Iran, it’ll pierce through any restrictions, and keep you hidden while doing it. 

And MACE will make sure that the experience is smooth— it hits ads and trackers like its namesake. There are plenty of other features to keep you happy, too.

Key Features

• MACE Ad Blocker: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
• Advanced Split Tunneling: Lets you route traffic through the VPN or ISP for specific apps.
• Port Forwarding: Opens specific ports for direct connections.
• WireGuard Protocol: Runs with the fastest and latest mainstream protocol.
• P2P-Optimized Servers: Servers work for torrenting with no bandwidth limits.

Pros

• Strong protection.
• MACE blocks ads and trackers.
• Works well even with heavy restrictions.
• Solid speeds.
• Privacy-focused.

Cons

• Smaller server network than others.
• Fewer advanced options.
• Limited streaming support.

3. Hotspot Shield VPN

If you don’t want to install a VPN app on your PC, try this one out. It comes with an alternative option: there’s also a Chrome Extension. 

It’s easy to set up and runs seamlessly. 

Better yet, Hotspot Shield also has their own protocol, so whatever the Iranian government tries to do to the popular ones like Wireguard won’t affect it.

Key Features

• Catapult Hydra Protocol: Boosts speed and performance.
• Simultaneous Connections: Use the service on many devices at once.
• Malware Protection: Scans websites for malware before you visit.
• Smart Connect: Automatically connects you to the fastest server.

Pros

• Chrome extension.
• Own protocol bypasses government blocks.
• Fast speeds.
• Malware protection included.

Cons

• Not ideal for torrenting.
• Limited features on free plan.

4. Windscribe

If you ask a regular VPN user from Iran what their favorite VPN is, they might say Windscribe. 

Windscribe actively supports Iranian users, especially during times when the internet is made unstable on purpose.

You’ll still get good speed and extra data as a free user— they’ve helped Iranians in the past with free offers. And it can pass through any block you need it to. 

Key Features

• R.O.B.E.R.T. Ad Blocker: Specialized tool that blocks ads and trackers.
• Split Tunneling: Make apps work through the VPN or your normal network.
• Time Warp: Changes your time zone to match the VPN location.
• Built-in Firewall: Extra layer of protection to prevent data leaks.

Pros

• Blocks ads and trackers.
• Customizable firewall.
• Good privacy policies.

Cons

• Some server speeds are inconsistent.
• Limited customer support.
• Not many servers on a free plan.

Top VPNs For iPhones In Iran

Apple’s products are already secure, but it never hurts to have extra protection. These are your options when it comes to iOS.

1. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is another unbelievably reliable VPN, especially for Iranians—their goal is to provide good privacy in every country. 

As such, they’re always optimizing their servers and VPNs to help out people in heavily censored countries. 

They don’t just focus on Iran, but other countries like China as well.

Key Features

• Secure Core: Routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries first.
• NetShield Ad Blocker: Blocks ads and trackers within the app.|
• Multi-Protocol Support: Use OpenVPN or IKEv2 depending on your preference.
• Multi-Hop Connections: Sends traffic through two servers for extra privacy.

Pros

• Optimized for heavily censored countries.
• Strong ad-blocker.
• Supports multiple protocols.
• No data caps on the free plan.

Cons

• Limited locations on free plan.
• Some features only in the paid version.
• Slower speeds on free servers

2. TunnelBear

TunnelBear sometimes has hiccups, but that’s to be expected since it’s a mainstream VPN. 

Nonetheless, when it matters, it still comes through for Iranians. 

Being one of the biggest options around, it has top-of-the-line security. It’ll get you good features, without being too expensive. 

Key Features

• VigilantBear (Kill Switch): Disconnects internet if the VPN connection drops.
• GhostBear (Obfuscation): Makes VPN traffic harder to detect.
• Auto-Tunnel on Public Wi-Fi: Connects automatically on unprotected networks.
• AES-256 Encryption: Strong encryption keeps the data safe.

Pros

• Simple to use.
• Obfuscation hides VPN traffic.
• Auto-connect on public Wi-Fi.
• Good privacy protection.

Cons

• Limited data on free plan.
• Fewer servers than some competitors.
• Can experience slow speeds.

3. Hide.me

Hide.me’s not a mainstream VPN, but every privacy enthusiast knows about it. It’s simple, fast, and reliable. 

What more would you need? This VPN does a great job of protecting your information and bypassing blocks. 

Netflix, Instagram, Facebook; you can run anything easily with Hide.me.

Key Features

• StealthGuard: Makes it so that only certain apps connect through the VPN.
• Port Forwarding: Open specific ports for apps that need them.
• IP Leak Protection: Prevents accidental exposure of your IP.
• Custom DNS Settings: Set your own DNS based on whichever works best for your purpose.

Pros

• Easy setup.
• Strong privacy protections.
• Custom DNS and IP leak protection.
• Good for torrenting.

Cons

• Small server network.
• Limited streaming support.

Top VPNs For Android In Iran

Now, let’s end this list with options for Android.

1. ExpressVPN

While ExpressVPN is available on all three of the platforms, our experience shows that its Android application is the best option to use. 

So, if you’ve got an Android phone that needs its privacy covered, this one can easily be one of your best options. 

You’ll be able to stream, browse, or do anything you like without hassle, and it’s fast too—one of the fastest VPNs out there, with awards to prove it.

Key Features

• Lightway Protocol: Proprietary protocol for faster connections.
• Private Servers: All data is handled in RAM for added privacy.
• IP Masking: Hides your IP address and location.
• AES-256 Encryption: Protects data with advanced encryption.

Pros

• Smooth app performance.
• Good for streaming.
• Strong encryption and security.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Limited features for advanced users.

2. NordVPN

Although you might have to put up with more frequent downtimes, you’ll still be very comfortable with NordVPN. 

It’s a tried and true option, and they work more than well enough at keeping your data safe. 

The interface is simple too, so if you don’t use VPNs often, you’ll like using it. 

Key Features

• Threat Protection: Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
• Double VPN Servers: Routes traffic through two locations.
• Onion Over VPN: Adds Tor for more privacy.
• NordLynx Protocol: Based on WireGuard for fast, safe connections.

Pros

• Strong ad and malware protection.
• Double VPN for extra privacy.
• Fast, reliable connections.
• User-friendly.

Cons

• Occasional downtimes.
• Some server speeds vary.

3. CyberGhost

CyberGhost, as the name implies, can turn you into a ghost in the online space. 

The encryption is strong and the speed is fast. 

It’s a good option for multiple users too, so you’ll make good use of it if you’re using it with family, or with a team from your business. 

Key Features

• Fast Connections: Works well for high-quality streaming.
• NoSpy Servers: Data-only servers operated by CyberGhost outside of unsavory privacy laws.
• Leak Protection: Prevents IP and DNS leaks.
• Seven Device Connections: Connects multiple devices at once.

Pros

• High-quality streaming servers.
• Specialized servers with more privacy.
• Protects against IP and DNS leaks.
• Allows multiple device connections.

Cons

• Slower on far servers.
• Higher cost for month-to-month.
• Some limitations in restricted regions

How To Choose The Best VPN For Iran

Any VPN that’s considered the “best” in general won’t work. You need some specific features to work around restrictions and not leak yourself to the government. Those include:

• Obfuscation: This tech masks your VPN traffic making it look like normal internet usage, so the government can’t detect it.
• Stealth Protocols: Protocols like WireGuard add an extra layer of security under the obfuscation so your data is even less visible.
• Kill Switch: If the VPN connection drops, a kill switch cuts off your internet to prevent leaking your IP address. This is important, as the government is always on watch. 
• Multi-Hop: A Multi-Hop VPN routes your traffic through multiple VPN servers, adding extra privacy by masking your IP even more.
• P2P Support: If you need to download files, choose a VPN with P2P support, though this can be riskier under close monitoring.

Is it Safe to Use a VPN in Iran?

No. If you use an unauthorized VPN, you might face fines or other penalties. Be aware of these risks. 

The punishments can be very harsh, you might even end up in jail as the government has considered criminalizing VPN use at one point.

It’s not easy to get ahold of a VPN either. You can’t even get one through the Play Store or Apple Store, though these are not the only way.

Remember, you take responsibility for your online actions when using a VPN in Iran.

We’re trying to help but use it at your own risk. You’ll need to be very careful. We are not responsible for any legal issues that may arise.

FAQs

1. Does NordVPN work in Iran?

Yes, NordVPN works in Iran. However, it gets blocked during protests. Its obfuscated servers hide VPN traffic, but the connection can still get unstable.

2. How to set up a VPN for safe internet use in Iran?

If the VPN app is unavailable, use these options:

1. Download the app from the web on your PC.
2. Sideload the app on your Android phone.
3. Jailbreak your iPhone and sideload apps.

3. What apps and websites in Iran can a VPN unblock for me?

Any mainstream social media app, entertainment site, or Western news outlet is blocked. You can see a full list here.

4. Is WhatsApp Available in Iran?

WhatsApp is blocked in Iran, especially during protests. You can always have access though, as long as you have a VPN.

5. Can I watch Netflix with a VPN in Iran?

Yes. Netflix is blocked in Iran, a VPN is your only way of using it. Just make sure the one you pick has dedicated streaming servers and a location close to Iran. Even better if that app also has ad blocking.

Final Thoughts

There are other VPN options out there, but we suggest sticking with these.

It’s easy to accidentally give your data to a shady VPN provider or even the Iranian government, which could get you into trouble.

We’ve picked VPNs that are secure, affordable (and even free), so you can use them with peace of mind.

So, go give all of them a try on your favorite sites! Try going with Vipiyan VPN first, because it’s specifically made for Iranian users.