Instagram is one of the most popular social media networks. With over 1 billion monthly active users, this platform clearly has a wide and global reach. However, some network administrators and countries (such as Iran) actually restrict access to this service. Fortunately, such restrictions can be bypassed with a VPN.
VPN is short for Virtual Private Network. VPNs hide your identity online by rerouting your internet connection through an encrypted, secure, third-party server. This assigns users a new IP address which also opens up the possibility of appearing to be connected to the internet from a different country, based on the location of the server providing the new IP address. Ultimately, this allows users to access content that has been geographically restricted.
If you want to access Instagram from an organization or country that has banned Instagram, you can bypass the block by first connecting to a VPN. By doing this, no one will know what you are doing online. In this article, I have reviewed the best VPNs for Instagram. However, if you’re short on time, here’s a quick summary.
Best VPNs for Instagram:
- NordVPN: My top pick for Instagram. It has a huge network of very fast servers that can unblock Instagram and other content. It also has strong security measures in place such as 256-bit AES encryption. It is also available across a wide variety of platforms including Linux. It also doesn’t store any logs of user information and comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: This is the best budget option VPN for Instagram. It doesn’t store any logs, has strong security measures in place and doesn’t impose any device limits.
- ExpressVPN: This is a great option for bypassing Instagram blocks and streaming thanks to its fast streaming speeds. It is also very secure and doesn’t store any logs.
- CyberGhost: Has a very large network of servers. This gives users lots of options for changing their IP address and for changing their location.
- PrivateVPN: A great option for giving users the ability to bypass Instagram. It is a smaller provider but can unblock services easily and has strong security measures in place.
- IPVanish: Good option for streaming and it has strong security measures in place. It can bypass Instagram blocks with no issues.
- Private Internet Access: A lightweight and secure VPN option that is capable of bypassing Instagram blocks.
- Atlas VPN: This smaller provider can bypass Instagram easily and doesn’t store any logs.
I carefully researched the best VPN services available for Instagram by picking VPNs that met the following criteria:
- Can unblock Instagram and other services such as streaming platforms
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures such as 256-bit AES encryption
- Servers in many different countries, facilitating easy bypassing of services that are geographically restricted
For more information about the criteria I used, check out the testing methodology section found further down this article.
Best VPNs for Instagram
Here is my list of best VPNs for Instagram:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN has a large, global network of VPN servers that spans around 60 countries. In total, there are over 5,000 servers. This service’s fast connection speeds make it an excellent option for streaming. It can also unblock many different services such as Instagram.
NordVPN has strong security measures in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. This service also doesn’t store any logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments. These payments don’t associate users’ names with payments, unlike traditional credit card payments.
Users can download the client apps for NordVPN for many different devices as well. This includes apps for Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, and even Linux. Some routers can have this service manually installed on them. Users have the option of connecting six of their devices simultaneously and the customer service team is available 24/7 via the provided live chat.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures in place
- No logs are stored
- Apps are available for many different platforms
- The customer service team is available 24/7
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow at times
BEST VPN FOR INSTAGRAM:NordVPN is one of the best options available for Instagram. It has over 5,000 servers, strong security measures, and it can unblock a wide variety of services in addition to Instagram. It also comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is an excellent, affordably-priced VPN. While it is affordable, the quality doesn’t take a hit. It has over 3,200 servers, spread across 100+ countries. It is a good option for those who might be interested in changing their IP address for reasons such as unblocking Instagram. It also offers fast streaming speeds and can access many other types of services.
In addition, this service has strong security measures in place such as 256-bit AES encryption, protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks. A kill switch is also included and traffic scrambling is provided. Another positive aspect of this provider is the support provided for cryptocurrency payments and that it also stores no logs.
Surfshark apps are also available for many different platforms. These include Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This service can also be installed on routers that support it. Surfshark offers users an unlimited number of connections. This is great for users with many different devices. In addition, the customer service team is available 24/7 via live chat which bodes well for people in different time zones.
Pros:
- Can unblock many different services such as Instagram
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong security measures
- An unlimited number of connections are supported
- Cryptocurrency payments are accepted
Cons:
- Some servers are slightly slow
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a great budget-friendly option, as it’s affordable and doesn’t skimp on quality. You can easily access Instagram with this service and it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN for users that stream a lot. Its server network provides very fast connection speeds and is made up of over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries. It accesses many first-rate streaming services such as BBC iPlayer, YouTube TV, Netflix US, and Hulu too. It is also easy to start using, making it a great option for beginners.
Strong security measures are in place such as 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against WebRTC, IPv6, and DNS leaks. A .onion site, which is accessed via the TOR network lets users protect their anonymity further, along with ExpressVPN’s support for cryptocurrency payments. Cryptocurrency payments provide increased anonymity because a user’s name isn’t associated with a cryptocurrency payment like it is with a traditional credit card payment. This service stores no logs and five simultaneous device connections are allowed.
ExpressVPN has apps for a number of different operating systems too. These include iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS. It can also be installed on supported routers. ExpressVPN’s customer support team is available 24/7 via the provided live chat.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds are available
- Can unblock many different streaming services
- .onion site available and cryptocurrency payments supported, allowing for increased anonymity
- Strong security measures are in place
Cons:
- This service is more expensive than some of the other providers on this list
- Lack of customizability may be frustrating for more advanced users
FAST STREAMING SPEEDS AND STRONG SECURITY:ExpressVPN is a great streaming option since it has fast servers optimized for streaming. It can also easily unblock Instagram. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost has the largest number of servers out of all of the other providers on this list and it is capable of accessing services such as ITV, Amazon Prime, and Netflix effortlessly while you’re travelling abroad. The connection speeds are fast too, allowing for the streaming of these services without lag or buffering. CyberGhost has over 9,700 VPN servers located in 91+ countries and can access Instagram and many other services.
CyberGhost has strong security in place which includes protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. There is also 256-bit AES encryption in place. CyberGhost stores no logs either. A kill switch is included which stops your IP address from being leaked in the event of your VPN connection dropping out. CyberGhost accepts cryptocurrency payments which are more anonymous than traditional credit card payments.
Apps are available for Linux, macOS, Windows, and Amazon Fire TV. Some routers can be manually set up with this service too. Customer support is available 24/7 and seven simultaneous connections are supported.
Pros:
- Clients are easy to use
- 24/7 live chat service available
- Large server network
- Strong security measures in place
Cons:
- Blocked in the UAE and China
- Torrenting and P2P may not work on all servers
LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has a network that consists of over 9,000 servers. This makes it a great option for users who need to access geographically restricted services from many different locations. It also offers strong security and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
5. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a smaller VPN provider that has a network of just over 200 servers that are spread across 63 countries. While the total number of servers is small, this provider’s global footprint is not. This means that users still have several different options for bypassing services that may be restricted, like Instagram. This also includes streaming services such as Disney+ and BBC iPlayer.
The provider has strong security measures in place as well. These include 256-bit AES encryption and protection against IPv6, DNS and WebRTC leaks. This provider also stores no logs. On top of that, this provider accepts cryptocurrency payments, allowing users to protect their identities when making payments.
PrivateVPN apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Users also have the option of configuring routers manually for this service. It should be noted that customer service agents for PrivateVPN can only be reached during regular Swedish business hours. While that is the case, it should be noted that the quality of customer service offered is excellent. However, depending on the time zone of the customer, this could be problematic. 10 devices can be connected using a single subscription.
Pros:
- Can unblock many different services
- Fast connection speeds
- No logs are stored
- Works in China
Cons:
- Small server network
- Customer support team isn’t reachable 24/7
PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:This is one of the most privacy-focused VPNs available. It has strong security features such as 256-bit AES encryption, which keep users safe when online and it accepts cryptocurrency payments. This service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. IPVanish
IPVanish is a secure VPN platform that has proven itself as one of the strongest contenders for streaming applications. This has been shown by the endorsement it has received over the years from the Kodi streaming community. In addition, it can unblock many different services, which is great for those who are abroad and need to access geographically restricted services.
The security features included with IPVanish keep users safe while online. These features include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. There is also a traffic scrambling option that is provided. This masks VPN traffic so that users are able to use the service in places where VPNs are not usually allowed.
IPVanish has apps available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, this service can also be manually set up on some routers and on Linux. It also supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Live chat support is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Unlimited number of connections allowed
- No logs are stored
- Great option for torrenters and Kodi users
Cons:
- Some servers don’t work with Netflix
- Apps don’t work in China
UNLIMITED NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS:IPVanish is secure and it offers fast streaming speeds. It also offers an unlimited number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a lightweight option with servers in over 80 countries. As well as unblocking Instagram successfully, it can also access streaming services such as YouTube TV and BBC iPlayer, along with access to region-locked IPTV services.
Strong security is offered by this provider too. AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling are offered to keep users safe online. Note that this service stores no logs.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. PIA has customer service that is available via their 24/7 live chat as well. 10 device connections are allowed at once.
Pros:
- Strong security measures
- Can provide secure access to many services
- Wireguard VPN protocol supported (faster, more efficient protocol)
- Several customization options
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- App design is lacking in some ways
LIGHTWEIGHT AND EFFECTIVE OPTION:PIA is a lightweight option that is able to provide users with secure access to many streaming services. It supports 10 simultaneous connections, has several customization options, and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
8. Atlas VPN
Atlas VPN is a smaller VPN provider with over 750 servers in about 40 locations. Its network of servers is fast and good for streaming. In addition, Atlas VPN can bypass restrictions on services such as Instagram and streaming platforms. Although it is a smaller provider, it doesn’t skimp on quality.
The provider also has strong security measures in place. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, WebRTC, and IPv6 leaks. This service stores no logs either. Its MultiHop servers let users encrypt their encryption twice for added security. This service also lets users pay with cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency payments are more secure than traditional credit card payments since users’ names aren’t associated with them.
Atlas VPN is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. In addition, an unlimited number of connections are supported.
Pros:
- Can unblock many different streaming services
- Fast connection speeds
- MultiHop servers add increased protection
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Customer service could be improved
STRONG ENCRYPTION:Atlas VPN has strong security measures in place such as double encryption and a kill switch. Accesses Instagram with ease and it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: Finding the best VPNs for Instagram
On my journey to find the best VPNs for Instagram, I used strict criteria. There are a number of different factors that must be taken into consideration when finding a VPN that is well-suited for unblocking a service such as Instagram. Here are some of the factors that I considered while coming up with the list above:
- Servers worldwide: A large selection of servers ensures that users have lots of choice when it comes to picking a location that is suitable for allowing access to restricted services such as Instagram. In addition, this makes it easier to find a location that is closer to you, ultimately resulting in faster speeds.
- Fast connection speeds: Fast speeds are important for a smooth internet browsing experience. This is useful if you usually watch lots of video content on Instagram.
- Ability to unblock services: Not all VPNs are able to unblock services. This is because some services can tell whether users are using a VPN. However, top-tier VPNs like the ones reviewed here are able to avoid detection.
- Security: In addition to being able to bypass blocks on services such as Instagram, VPNs must protect users. This is implemented using features such as 256-bit AES encryption.
How to bypass an Instagram block with a VPN
Struggling to access Instagram? Here are four simple steps you can follow to bypass an Instagram block with a VPN:
- First, sign up for a top-tier VPN service. I recommend using NordVPN.
- After signing up, download the app for the service that will work on the device you need to use Instagram on.
- Now, connect to a VPN server. If you are in a country where Instagram is restricted, you will need to connect to a VPN server in another country, such as the USA, where Instagram isn’t restricted.
- After connecting to the right server, you can try logging in/signing up and using Instagram.
If this doesn’t work, try clearing your device’s cache and cookies. If you continue to encounter problems, contact your VPN’s support team for further advice.
Best VPNs for Instagram FAQs
Is it legal to use a VPN with Instagram?
Yes, using a VPN is completely legal. However, using a VPN to carry out an illegal activity is not. Breaking the law whle using a VPN doesn’t protect you from the possible consequences. With that being said, don’t take anything in this article as legal advice.
Can I just use a free VPN with Instagram?
I don't recommend using a free VPN. Free VPNs have limitations. They typically don't have the same infrastructure and resources in place as paid VPNs. For example, they usually have less servers that are not as powerful. This leads to slow connection speeds and lag.
On top of that, free VPNs often don't have great security measures in place. They can even lack encryption, meaning that users won't have added protection when using them. Some VPNs have even been known to sell user data for a profit.
Free VPNs can also struggle to bypass restrictions on services like Instagram if they are in place. For these reasons, I recommend using a reputable, paid VPN.
Are VPNs safe?
Yes, VPNs are safe. In fact, it is safer to use a VPN when browsing than to not use one. When using a VPN, your IP address will be masked and your identity will be protected.
Why is Instagram blocked?
Instagram may be blocked in workplaces and in schools to ensure that workers/students are being productive. This can also be done to reduce unnecessary network congestion.
Also, Instagram may be blocked in some countries where the government is restrictive and wants to prevent freedom of expression. This is the case in China, where many popular social media platforms are blocked.
Contents [hide]
- Best VPNs for Instagram
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. PrivateVPN
- 6. IPVanish
- 7. Private Internet Access
- 8. Atlas VPN
- Testing methodology: Finding the best VPNs for Instagram
- How to bypass an Instagram block with a VPN
- Best VPNs for Instagram FAQs
- Is it legal to use a VPN with Instagram?
- Can I just use a free VPN with Instagram?
- Are VPNs safe?
- Why is Instagram blocked?