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Best VPNs for Iran 2025: Secure & Reliable Access

  • Last updated February 6, 2025
  • Muhammad Maaz
    Muhammad Maaz
    Muhammad Maaz
    Senior Writer
    Muhammad Maaz specializes in crafting insightful content on cybersecurity, unbiased VPN reviews trough extensive tests, and online privacy topics. Along with writing for the cybersecurity niche, he is passionate about sports, gaming, and staying updated on cyber trends. His interests and passion turn complex topics into engaging, practical, and informative pieces.
    See Full Bio >
    written by
    Muhammad Maaz
    Muhammad Maaz
    Muhammad Maaz
    Senior Writer
    Muhammad Maaz specializes in crafting insightful content on cybersecurity, unbiased VPN reviews trough extensive tests, and online privacy topics. Along with writing for the cybersecurity niche, he is passionate about sports, gaming, and staying updated on cyber trends. His interests and passion turn complex topics into engaging, practical, and informative pieces.
    See Full Bio >
    Senior Writer

Despite technical advancements and over 73 million internet users, Iran is heavily censored, with thousands of blocked sites and no freedom of speech. Authorities monitor online activities through ISPs, posing significant risks to your online privacy. Using the best VPNs for Iran can help protect your online data, ensuring you stay secure and private.

The best VPN services encrypt your data so securely that not even the government can access or spy on your online activities. However, due to increased governmental surveillance and internet restrictions in Iran, finding a secure VPN is challenging. ExpressVPN stands out as the most reliable choice for 2025, offering robust encryption, fast speeds, and a 30-day money-back guarantee to circumvent censorship effectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Censorship and Surveillance: Iran has extensive online censorship and monitors internet activity through ISPs, posing significant privacy risks.
  • Necessity of VPNs: Using a VPN is essential for circumventing censorship, accessing blocked content, and ensuring online privacy in Iran.
  • Focus on Security and Privacy: Highlights VPNs with strong encryption and no-logs policies, crucial for circumventing government surveillance and censorship in Iran.
  • Recommended VPNs: Features like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, are noted for their reliability and speed in Iran.
  • User Experience: Provides easy installation guides and customer support details, emphasizing ease of use.

Quick Overview – Best VPNs for Iran in 2025

Discover the best VPNs for Iran to navigate its strict internet censorship and enhance online privacy. These top VPN services for Iran offer robust security, fast speeds, and user-friendly features to ensure a secure and unrestricted browsing experience.

Which is the Best VPN for Iran? Editor’s Choice

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Iran, offering fast servers, advanced protection, and robust security features, crucial for bypassing strict online censorship. With TrustedServer technology, Threat Manager, and strong encryption protocols, it ensures safe and private browsing for users in Iran.

Additionally, cryptocurrency payments and a 30-day money-back guarantee provide anonymity and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for Iranian users. Now with dedicated IP services in 27 locations, it enhances access to sensitive sites while reducing CAPTCHA prompts, ensuring a smoother and more seamless browsing experience.

Quick Comparison Table: Best VPNs for Iran in 2025

To help you decide better, here’s the comparison of all the best VPN providers for Iranian users:

VPNs ExpressVPN-logo-for-iran Surfshark-logo-for-iran NordVPN-logo-for-iran cyberghost-logo-for-iran IPVanish-logo-for-Iran
Worldwide Servers Servers in 105+ countries Servers in 100+ countries Servers in 61+ countries Servers in 100+ countries Servers in 135+ countries
Streaming Services Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and more. Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more. Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, BFI Player, and more. Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer. Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Sling TV.
Compatible Devices iOS, Nintendo, Android, Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, routers, and more Smart TV, Firestick, iOS, Nintendo, Android, Windows, routers, and more Apple TV, Xbox, iOS, Nintendo, Android, Windows, routers, and more iOS, Android, Windows, routers, and more iOS, Android, Windows, and more
Simultaneous Connections 8 Unlimited 10 7 Unlimited
Activity logs Keeps no logs Keeps no logs Keeps no logs Keeps no logs Keeps no logs
Money Back Guarentee 30 Days 30 Days 30 Days 45 Days 30 Days
Current Deal $4.99/mo $2.49/mo $3.39/mo $2.03/mo $2.19/mo
Note: It’s important to remember that along with speed, maintaining security is also very important because around 66% of online users have experienced a cyber attack while surfing. To address this, ExpressVPN uses various security protocols like AES-256 Encryption, making it nearly impossible for online data to leak.

5 Best VPNs for Iran [2025 In-Depth Analysis]

For your ease, I’ve discussed the best VPN services with features that allow you to browse Iran’s digital space safely. I tested 150+ VPNs based on their security protocols, servers, privacy features, unblocking ability, etc, and concluded that the following VPNs are the best ones to use in Iran:

Speed Comparison of the Best VPN for Iran: Torrenting, Gaming, and Streaming

Below is a graphical comparison of ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, CyberGhost, and IPVanish’s speeds for various activities such as torrenting, gaming, and streaming. These tests were performed while in Iran:

graph-representation-of-speed-comparison-of-best-Iran-VPN

After personally testing each VPN on their US servers, I found that ExpressVPN consistently delivers exceptional speed performance across all activities, making it the ideal choice for users in Iran.

Testing Methodology: How I Tested the Best VPNs for Iran

The political situation in Iran is volatile and alarming. Citizens should exercise extreme caution when using a VPN. The entire purpose is to evade internet restrictions and protect your privacy. While selecting the 5 best VPNs for Iran, I tested 150+ providers on the following criteria:

  • Select a VPN that works in Iran: The VPN you choose must be reliable in Iran. All my top picks offer obfuscation and are highly effective, working almost 100% of the time in Iran.
  • Prioritize strong security features: Online tracking is a serious issue in Iran, so using a VPN with comprehensive security and privacy features is crucial. I recommend VPNs with a no-logs policy, kill switch, leak protection, and 256-bit AES encryption.
  • Pick a VPN with fast speeds: Fast connections are essential for smooth browsing, streaming, and downloading. I recommend ExpressVPN for its unmatched speed and performance.
  • Select a VPN with user-friendly features: Easy-to-use apps and interfaces are vital for everyday use in Iran. I chose VPNs that allow quick account setup and easy connection to a nearby server. ExpressVPN is one of the most beginner-friendly VPNs on my list.
  • Choose a VPN that offers excellent value for your money: Look for a balance between features, performance, and pricing to ensure the best experience without exceeding your budget.

Why You Should Use a VPN in Iran?

The situation in Iran is severe, with potential internet cutoffs if certain laws pass. Using a VPN in this country is crucial for staying connected and secure.

  1. Circumventing Censorship: Iran heavily censors the internet, blocking thousands of sites, including Google and social media. A VPN can avoid these restrictions, allowing access to blocked content.
  2. Avoiding ISP Monitoring: Iranian ISPs monitor and gather data on your online activities. Using a VPN encrypts your connection and changes your IP address, protecting your privacy.
  3. Unblocking WhatsApp and Other Social Media Sites: Social media and VoIP services are often blocked in Iran. A VPN can help you access these platforms by making it appear you’re in a non-censored country.
  4. Evading Regional Restrictions: Location-based restrictions block access to streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. A VPN allows you to connect to servers in other countries and unblock these platforms.
  5. Getting Rid of Potential ISP Throttling: Authorities can throttle your connection during bandwidth-heavy activities. A VPN prevents throttling by concealing your IP address and online activities.
  6. Staying Safe on Public WiFi Networks: Public WiFi hotspots in Iran are often unsecured. A VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address, protecting your data from hackers.

How to Set Up a VPN in Iran in 2025

Before you try to use a VPN in Iran, I’d like to inform you that VPN usage in the country is technically illegal. However, as long as you do it safely, you should be in the clear. Follow the steps given below to use a VPN in Iran safely:

  • Download a VPN for Iran from a trusted service. I highly recommend ExpressVPN.

get-expressvpn

  • Install the VPN app and register an account for yourself.

download-expressvpn

  • Enable security features like the kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscation mode.
  • Connect to any nearby server location in Iran.
  • connect-expressvpn-to-countries-near-iran
  • Now, you can enjoy secure browsing and streaming in Iran!
Get ExpressVPN - Best VPN for Iran 30-day money-back guarantee

Trusted Sources for Downloading a VPN for Iran

When downloading a reliable VPN for use in Iran, it’s important to choose trustworthy sources that provide secure, high-quality services. Here are some trusted sources:

Trusted VPN Sources Description
Official VPN Websites Always download VPN software directly from the official websites of reputable VPN providers to ensure authenticity and security.
Google Play Store For Android users, download VPN apps directly from the Google Play Store.
Apple App Store For iOS users, find and download VPN apps from the Apple App Store.
Verified Software Platforms Use well-known software platforms that provide trusted reviews and secure download links for VPN services.
VPN Review Sites Refer to reputable VPN review sites offering comprehensive reviews and direct download links to ensure you choose a reliable service.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are downloading a secure and effective VPN for use in Iran.

What Streaming Services Can You Access in Iran with a VPN?

Using a VPN in Iran enables access to popular international streaming services, such as:

  • Netflix US
  • Hulu
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • BBC iPlayer
  • Disney+
  • HBO Max
  • YouTube TV

A reliable VPN like ExpressVPN helps overcome geographical limitations, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows and movies from these platforms while in Iran.

VPN Not Working in Iran? Quick Troubleshooting Tips

In Iran, government censorship blocks apps like WhatsApp and Instagram and even impacts VPNs. If your VPN isn’t working, try these quick fixes:

  1. Change to Another Server: Switch servers if your current one is overcrowded or unsupported. Log in to your VPN app and select a different server from the list.
  2. Try a Different Protocol: Switch from OpenVPN UDP to OpenVPN TCP or another protocol. Adjust this setting in your VPN app’s connection options.
  3. Use an Obfuscated Server: Obfuscated servers hide your VPN traffic. Select an obfuscated server in your VPN app’s settings.
  4. Clear Cache and Cookies: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies to help your VPN work correctly. Go to your browser settings and clear browsing data.
  5. Change Your VPN Provider: If issues persist, switch to a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN. It offers stealth features and strong encryption that is suitable for Iran.

These steps should help you resolve most VPN issues and regain access to blocked sites and apps in Iran.

Internet Censorship in Iran

Freedom House reported that Iran ranks amongst countries that don’t encourage freedom regarding political rights and civil liberties. It was ranked 11/100 and declared “Not Free,” meaning Iranians cannot access everything available online. Even if they do, their local IP addresses will be blocked by the government and ISPs, hence heavily restricting access.

For instance, you won’t be able to access multiple Western websites as they’re considered “counter-revolutionary” and “Anti-Islamic.” Locals cannot even access social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, etc.

With the highly suspicious death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died three days later after she was seen being dragged to a van and arrested by Iran’s Morality Police for defying the country’s dress code, the US announced it’d be actively supporting internet freedom in Iran. It also said it’d be imposing sanctions on Iran and encouraging the use of communication tools for Iranians.

Privacy Concerns When Using a VPN in Iran

Using a VPN in Iran has several privacy concerns due to the government’s strict monitoring and censorship policies. Here are the key privacy issues to be aware of:

  1. Government Surveillance: The Iranian government monitors internet activity, so choose a VPN with strong security features like a no-logs policy and robust encryption.
  2. Data Logging by VPN Providers: Some VPNs may log and sell your data. Opt for reputable VPNs with a strict no-logs policy to keep your data private.
  3. Blocked VPN Services: Many VPN services are blocked, and using an unapproved VPN can be risky. Use a VPN with obfuscation techniques to hide your VPN usage.
  4. Potential Legal Risks: Proposed laws could criminalize VPN use, leading to fines or imprisonment. Stick to VPNs known for maintaining user privacy and security.

To mitigate these risks, it’s vital to use a reliable VPN provider with a proven track record of maintaining user privacy and security, such as ExpressVPN. These VPNs offer advanced features like obfuscation, strong encryption, and a strict no-logs policy to help protect your online privacy in Iran.

What Are the Top-Rated VPNs for Iran on Reddit?

Here are the top VPNs recommended by Reddit users for use in Iran:

  • ExpressVPN
  • NordVPN
  • Psiphon
  • ProtonVPN
  • Lantern
  • SpeedVPN
  • Adguard VPN
  • Chitavpn
  • MullvadVPN

Can I Use a Free VPN for Iran?

Yes, you can use a free VPN for Iran, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs often have limited features, slow speeds, and security risks. ExpressVPN offers high speeds, strong security, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Free VPNs may expose you to malware or data tracking. Even the best free VPNs have limitations:

  • Proton VPN: the best free VPN for iPhone in Iran. It offers 3 server locations free of cost: the US, the Netherlands, and Japan. Read the Proton VPN review to learn more about this VPN.
  • Windscribe: Windscribe is the best VPN for Iran free of cost. It offers 11 server locations across the globe for free VPN users. It also offers 10GB of monthly data, so you can easily enjoy content from abroad. Refer to the Windscribe review to know more.

For the best experience, use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN for fast speeds, reliable servers, and superior security.

Why Using a VPN is Preferred Over Proxies?

Here are the reasons why using a VPN over proxies is preferred:

Feature VPNs Proxies
Security and Privacy Encrypts internet traffic, providing high security and privacy. Prevents monitoring by ISPs, hackers, and government agencies. Masks IP address but does not encrypt traffic, leaving data vulnerable to interception and monitoring.
Ability to Overcome Censorship More effective due to encryption and obfuscated servers, making it harder for authorities to detect and block VPN traffic. Helps access blocked websites by changing IP addresses, but it is easier to detect and block, making it less reliable.
Speed and Performance May slightly reduce internet speed due to encryption, but premium VPNs offer high-speed servers to minimize impact. Typically offers faster connections since data is not encrypted but sacrifices security and privacy.
Ease of Use User-friendly with dedicated apps for various devices and operating systems. Often includes additional features like kill switches and DNS leak protection. Can be more complicated to set up, often requiring manual configuration in browser or OS settings.
Cost Usually, it requires a subscription fee, justified by advanced security features and reliable performance. Often free or cheaper, but free proxies can be risky and may log activities or inject ads into browsing sessions.

VPN Guides for Other Countries

Here are a few VPN guides for other countries:

FAQs – Best VPNs for Iran

ExpressVPN will be the best and fastest VPN for Iran in 2025. Additionally, you can use Surfshark, which offers unlimited simultaneous connections, and NordVPN, known for its strong security features.

The purchase and sale of VPNs were previously made illegal in Iran. The new resolution now bans their actual use, requiring individuals to obtain a special license to access filtered websites and social media networks.

VPNs can significantly enhance anonymity in Iran by encrypting internet traffic and masking IP addresses, making it difficult for authorities to track online activities. However, due to Iran’s strict VPN blocks and surveillance, anonymity might not be guaranteed without highly reliable and secure VPN services.

ExpressVPN is the top choice for Iran in 2025. All its servers include obfuscation, allowing you to circumvent government restrictions. It also offers excellent security and privacy features, such as Perfect Forward Secrecy, DNS Leak Protection, Threat Manager, and TrustedServer technology.

To stay safe online in Iran, it is recommended to use ExpressVPN. It offers high-speed connections and advanced privacy features for a secure browsing experience. Another reliable option is NordVPN, known for its strong security features and large server network, allowing easy access to geo-blocked content.

Obfuscation technologies are advanced VPN features that disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic, making it harder for authorities to detect and block VPN usage. In countries like Iran, where the government actively blocks and monitors VPN connections, obfuscation is crucial for maintaining access to unrestricted internet.

Using a VPN service is now illegal in Iran, except for those with a legal permit. This ruling was imposed by a new resolution issued by the country’s National Virtual Space Center on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, and signed off by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

While it might be tempting to opt for a free VPN, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with using free VPNs in Iran, including unreliable sources, potential data selling, malware, slow speeds, bandwidth caps, and limitations regarding features and servers.

Conclusion

Iran imposes harsh restrictions on the online liberty of its citizens, even to this day. Similarly, there is increased online surveillance as the government controls the internet and limits access to information, especially from abroad. However, not every VPN can work within a restrictive country like Iran.

That’s why I’ve recommended the best VPNs for Iran 2024 so you can access all blocked social media apps, websites, and streaming platforms within the country. My top recommendation is ExpressVPN, with its military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, obfuscation technology, and ability to evade geo-blocks.

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