Zoom has become an essential communication tool for both business and personal use. However, in some countries, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps are banned.
So, if you want to access Zoom in a country where it is banned or if you’re looking for extra protection while on a call, then a VPN is the right option for you.
In addition to bypassing geographical restrictions, VPNs protect users in the online environment thanks to their strong encryption and other security features such as DNS leak protection. This ensures that users’ information is kept private and secure, even on open WiFi networks.
While I have reviewed the top VPN providers for Zoom in detail below, here is a quick summary in case you’re in a rush.
The best VPNs for Zoom:
- NordVPN: My number one choice for Zoom. It offers fast connection speeds and strong security measures. It also has thousands of servers in 118+ countries, giving users lots of choice. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: The best budget option available for Zoom. It has thousands of servers globally and offers an unlimited number of connections. Fast connections.
- IPVanish: A great option when it comes to connection speeds. It also offers an unlimited number of connections.
- ExpressVPN: Offers reliable connections and robust security with measures such as 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch.
- CyberGhost VPN: Huge server network and is very easy to use, making it a great option for beginners.
- Private Internet Access: A lightweight option that offers customizable encryption and allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices at once.
- PrivateVPN: Privacy-focused option with decent connection speeds and security measures in place. More than fast enough for Zoom calls.
There are many VPNs out there, so I used a set of criteria to help me determine which VPNs are best for Zoom.
I go into more detail about the criteria I considered in the testing methodology section later in this article, but here’s a quick overview:
- Fast servers for lag-free video calls
- Apps across different platforms
- Strong security features
- Excellent customer support team
- Zero logs policy that keeps your information private
- Ease of use
- Value for money
The best VPNs for Zoom
Here are the best VPNs for Zoom, so you can make an informed decision about the best VPN for your needs.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN’s blazing-fast server network consists of over 7,200 servers spread across 118+ countries. Its fast connection speeds make it an excellent provider for VOIP apps, so you can make important video conference calls without lag. Plus, it provides reliable and secure access to leading streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.
NordVPN also has several security features that protect users, including 256-bit AES encryption, an app-specific kill switch, an automatic ad-blocker, a malware scanner, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks.
This is supplemented by NordVPN’s strong privacy standards. It makes a point of not storing any logs and accepts cryptocurrency payments, which don’t associate users’ names with payments like traditional credit card payments.
Users have the option to download NordVPN on several different operating systems. These include macOS, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android. Routers can also be manually configured to work with this service. Users can connect 10 devices to this service simultaneously and the customer support team can be reached 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds for Zoom users
- Strong security measures keep users protected
- No logs are stored
- Apps are available for many different platforms
- The customer support team is available 24/7
Cons:
- The desktop app can be slow at times
BEST VPN FOR ZOOM:NordVPN is my number one choice. It has a large server network and offers fast speeds, making it easy to carry out video calls without lag. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is an affordable VPN that doesn’t skimp on quality and has a network of over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries. It offers fast connection speeds and strong security features, making it an excellent choice for Zoom and unblocking a wide variety of online services.
In addition, Surfshark’s security measures are solid. This provider offers 256-bit AES encryption, protection against IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, and a kill switch is in place. There is also an option for traffic scrambling.
Surfshark’s apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Some routers can also have this service manually installed on them. The customer service team is available 24/7 and you can connect an unlimited number of devices at once.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Can unblock many different services
- Strong security measures
- Supports an unlimited number of connections
- Cryptocurrency payments accepted
Cons:
- Some servers are a little slow at times
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is very competitively priced, with an extensive server network and unlimited simultaneous connections. Can unblock many different services without hassle and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent provider for users who stream a lot, offering fast streaming speeds and the ability to unblock most leading platforms – Netflix, HBO Max, Paramount, and more. You’ll experience no lag or connectivity issues when hosting video conferences on Zoom. Has a network of over 3,000 servers in 105+ countries, ensuring you can access geographically restricted services no matter your location. Plus, it is very easy to use, making it one of the better choices for beginners as well.
The provider has strong security measures, including 256-bit AES encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks. It also has a .onion site which can only be accessed via the anonymous TOR network. The TOR network is heavily encrypted and, therefore, is an excellent option for those who want to browse anonymously. This service stores no logs, and eight simultaneous device connections are allowed.
Express VPN has apps available for iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux, and can also be installed on supported routers. The customer support team can be reached 24/7 via the provided live chat.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Can unblock top-tier streaming services
- Strong security features
- .onion site and acceptance of cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- More expensive than some other options
- Lack of customizability could be frustrating for advanced users
EASILY BYPASS GEO-BLOCKS:ExpressVPN offers very fast speeds and can navigate geo-restrictions to unblock most online services. Prioritizes security and privacy and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
4. IPVanish
IPVanish is a secure VPN provider 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. Its fast streaming speeds also make it a good option for Zoom and other video conference platforms.
Its advanced security features keep users safe while online. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. A traffic scrambling option is also provided. This masks VPN traffic, so users can 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 Linux. Supports an unlimited number of simultaneous connections and live chat support is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Fast connection speeds
- Unlimited number of connections
- 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 reliable, allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices, and offers fast streaming speeds. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN has a large server network, with over 11,500 in 100+ countries. So, no matter where in the world you need to use Zoom, you’ll be able to connect to a fast server. Plus, fast connection speeds mean you can use services such as Zoom without lag or buffering.
CyberGhost has strong security measures, including protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. There is also 256-bit AES encryption in place and it stores no logs. Also, a kill switch is included, which stops your IP address from being leaked if your VPN connection drops out, and CyberGhost accepts cryptocurrency payments for additional anonymity.
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
Cons:
- Blocked in the UAE and China
- Torrenting and P2P may not work on all servers
LARGE SERVER NETWORK:CyberGhost has a network of over 11,500 servers, which makes it a great option for users who need to access geographically restricted services. Offers strong security and comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
6. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) is fast and efficient thanks to its use of the WireGuard VPN protocol. PIA is a lightweight option that doesn’t use many system resources, which helps when it comes to using a resource-intensive app such as Zoom. It can unblock most major streaming platforms as well.
The provider offers strong security and privacy features, including 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and split tunneling to keep users safe. This service stores no logs and offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. PIA has customer service that is available 24/7 via the provided live chat and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Strong security measures
- Connect an unlimited number of devices
- Supports the WireGuard VPN protocol (faster, more efficient)
- Several customization options are available
Cons:
- Doesn’t work reliably in China
- App design is lacking in some ways
LIGHTWEIGHT, EFFECTIVE PROVIDER:PIA is a lightweight VPN that is fast and efficient. Supports an unlimited number of connections and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
7. PrivateVPN
PrivateVPN is a smaller provider, with only 200+ servers across 60+ countries. While this shouldn’t be an issue for most Zoom users, it’s worth bearing in mind. Despite the small server network, it does offer fast connection speeds that are suitable for video conferences, gaming, and streaming.
PrivateVPN has strong security measures, such as 256-bit AES encryption, protection from IPv6, WebRTC, and DNS leaks, and stores no logs. On top of that, this provider accepts cryptocurrency payments.
Apps are provided for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. Linux devices and routers can be manually configured to work with this service as well. One thing to note is that customer service agents can only be reached during regular business hours. 10 devices can be connected with a single subscription simultaneously.
Pros:
- Unblocks many streaming sites
- Fast speeds
- No logs are stored
- Works in China
Cons:
- Small server network
- Customer support isn’t available 24/7
PRIVACY-FOCUSED VPN:PrivateVPN is a privacy-focused provider with strong security features in place to keep you safe online. It also provides access to a wide range of streaming platforms and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How I chose the best VPNs for Zoom
While there are many different VPNs out there, not all of them are created equally. I used a set of strict criteria to find the best VPNs for Zoom, so you never have to worry about lag and an interrupted video call experience. Here are the most important aspects I considered:
- Strong server network: A big network of fast servers gives users lots of different choices for Zoom, no matter where they’re located in the world. It prevents lag and buffering as well to ensure your meetings run smoothly.
- Apps on all platforms: Apps across different platforms ensure you can use Zoom on all of your devices. This, in combination with supporting multiple device connections, is good news for large families and friendship groups. Apps must also be beginner-friendly and easy to use.
- Strong security measures: VPNs protect users online thanks to strong security features, such as encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy. This ensures protection from security threats, keeping users’ online information private and anonymous.
- Strong customer support team: This ensures that users get assistance with any problems they encounter. 24/7 customer service and a live chat are bonuses.
- Value for money: Nobody likes to be ripped off. I made sure that all of the VPNs in this list give you plenty of bang for your buck and offer money-back guarantees.
You can find more information about the criteria I used in my full VPN testing process guide.
How to use Zoom with a VPN
Once you’ve decided which VPN is the right choice for you, it’s time to get started. Get set up by following these four simple steps.
Step-by-step guide to using Zoom with a VPN:
- First, you must subscribe to a VPN that works well with Zoom. I recommend using NordVPN since it offers fast speeds, strong security, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Download your VPN app onto the device you want to use Zoom on.
- After downloading the app, you can choose a server in a country where Zoom works without restrictions.
- Now, you should be able to use Zoom and start hosting video conferences without any issues.
If you are experiencing problems, try clearing your cache and cookies. If this fails, contact your VPN’s customer support team.
Best VPNs for Zoom FAQs
Where is Zoom banned?
Zoom is restricted in the following countries:
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Syria
- Ukraine (Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk regions)
Can I use a free VPN with Zoom?
No, I don’t recommend using a free VPN with Zoom. Free VPNs don’t have the same infrastructure as paid options, with fewer servers that aren’t as powerful. This can lead to lag and buffering, which isn’t ideal for a resource-intensive app such as Zoom. Ultimately, this is terrible for personal calls and even worse for business calls.
Free VPNs also don’t always have security measures, such as encryption, in place, which could lead to user information being compromised. Some free VPNs have even been known to sell user information for a profit.
For all of these reasons, I do not recommend using a free VPN with Zoom.
Is it safe to use a VPN?
Yes, in fact, it is safer to use the internet with a VPN than without one. This is because VPNs mask your identity and enhance security.