The Iranian government imposes strict internet restrictions, blocking numerous apps and websites and closely monitoring user activities. I’ve found that only a VPN can ensure access to block websites and protect privacy. However, finding the best free VPN for Iran is difficult, as many lack the advanced features to counter Iran’s surveillance methods.
After extensive testing and evaluations of 45 services, I’ve identified that certain freemium VPNs offer robust security features and capabilities to bypass censorship. These best free VPN services prove effective in restrictive settings where internet freedom is limited.
ExpressVPN is my superior choice for comprehensive privacy with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Its vast server network and military-grade encryption masks Iranian IP addresses, enabling secure and unrestricted internet exploration.
Quick Overview: Best Free VPN for Iran in 2024
Here’s my list of the best free VPN for Iran services for secure internet access and bypassing internet censorship:
- ExpressVPN: Best Free Trial VPN for Iran. Exceptional speed and robust security features to keep online activities secure and private. Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Get a Special Offer today: $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free!
- CyberGhost: Reliable VPN to Get Free Iran IP. Offers 26 virtual servers in Iran to get an Iran IP address with versatile security features and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
- Windscribe: Best Free VPN for Iran with Ad Blocker. Comes with 10 GB of data and 11 free servers. Protects privacy and enhances browsing by blocking unwanted ads.
- ProtonVPN: Best Free VPN for Iran with Unlimited Bandwidth. Offers 5 free servers and advanced security features for extensive data usage without restrictions.
- TunnelBear: User friendly Free VPN for Iran. Offer 47 free servers with 2GB data and a simple setup process for those new to VPNs.
Best Free VPN for Iran [Detailed Analysis – 2024]
After extensive testing, I’ve found that the following VPNs stand out for their impressive ability to bypass censorship. With Iran’s substantial internet censorship and surveillance, they also protect your online activities with their robust security features.
Here’s a detailed look at the top free internet VPN in Iran 2024:
1. ExpressVPN– Best Free Trial VPN for Iran
- Ultra-fast servers in 105 Countries
- Excellent unblocking capability for Netflix, Hulu & more
- Best-in-class encryption trusted security, and advanced protection features that block ads, trackers, and harmful sites.
- Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously
- 24/7 customer support through live chat
- 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN is widely regarded as the best free trial VPN for Iran, offering a 30-day money-back guarantee. Its comprehensive capabilities and dependable performance make it an excellent VPN for privacy, security, and unrestricted internet access.
Servers:
ExpressVPN offers exceptional performance and reliability with an extensive network across 105 countries. Despite not having servers in Iran, the nearby servers in Pakistan and Turkey ensure that users can enjoy a secure and unrestricted browsing experience.
Unblocking Abilities
My experience with ExpressVPN has been highly effective. Its Turkey helps me bypass restrictions on Iranian channels such as iFilm, IRIB Amoozesh, and IRIB Bazaar, allowing me to enjoy local Persian content without interruption.
I unblocked the Irani channel – IRIB, using the ExpressVPN Pakistan server.
Speed test:
Then, I conducted an ExpressVPN speed test over a 100 Mbps connection, which achieved download speeds of 86.42 Mbps and upload speeds of 84.64 Mbps. These speeds ensure a seamless streaming experience.
ExpressVPN provides excellent speeds to be the best VPN for Iran free
Security and Privacy Features
It strongly emphasizes security with AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and TrustedServer technology to ensure all data is wiped with every reboot. Additionally, ExpressVPN Threat Manager blocks ad trackers and prevents access to malicious sites exceptionally well-suited for countries with heavy censorship like Iran.
Compatible Devices and Simultaneous Connections
I appreciate its user-friendly interface for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux, simplifying navigation and making advanced features accessible. The ExpressVPN MediaStreamer feature is also notable for connecting devices that typically do not support VPNs. I can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, which benefits my multi-device use.
Plans/ Free Trial:
For the price of $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free, ExpressVPN offers a great balance between cost and the premium features provided. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee as an ExpressVPN free trial to test all its features risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, you can get a full refund.
For more details, check out the ExpressVPN review.
- High-speed connections for streaming and downloading.
- Strong privacy and security features for bypassing censorship and protecting data.
- Broad device compatibility with user-friendly apps
- 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial
- 24/7 live chat support
- One of the more expensive VPN services available.
- Not a completely free VPN for Iranians.
2. CyberGhost – Reliable VPN to Get Free Iran IP
- 11651 Servers Servers in 100 Countries
- 7 Simultaneous Logins
- 45 Days Money-Back Guarantee
- Strict No Logs Policy
- 24/7 Live Chat Support
- Strong Protocols & Encryption
CyberGhost is renowned for its ability to provide a reliable Iranian IP through its comprehensive server network. Its vast server network makes it an excellent VPN for journalists Iran.
Server Network
CyberGhost operates over 11651 servers in 100 countries, ensuring wide access to global content. It also offers 26 virtual server locations in Iran handy for getting an Iranian IP address to access local content.
My Experience with Unblocking Iranian Sites
Using the CyberGhost server for Iran, I have consistently managed to access Iranian sites and services like Al-Kawther, Jame Jam TV, etc, that are typically geo-restricted. The VPN effectively bypasses blocks with stable and fast connectivity.
CyberGhost Iran server allows me to watch Persian shows on Al-Kawther
Bandwidth Limit and Speed Performance
CyberGhost provides unlimited bandwidth, ideal for high-demand activities such as streaming, gaming, and large downloads. It achieved a download speed of 75.47 Mbps and an upload speed of 69.34 Mbps during my CyberGhost speed test of 100 Mbps.
Enjoy decent streaming speed using CyberGhost servers.
Security and Privacy Features for Iran
CyberGhost offers robust security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, automatic kill switch, and DNS and IP leak protection. The service also uses Perfect Forward Secrecy to frequently update encryption keys against breaches. These features ensure that your online activities are secure from surveillance and data interception, which is crucial for Iran.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections
The VPN is compatible with various devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. CyberGhost also supports direct APK downloads to install the app on Android devices where Google Play is restricted. Each account supports simultaneous connections for up to 7 devices.
Free Trial and Pricing
CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, giving users ample time to evaluate the Iran VPN free. The best pricing plan – $2.03/mo - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free provides good value.
For more details, check out the CyberGhost review.
- 26 Virtual locations for an Iranian IP address.
- Strong security features are suitable for Iran’s restrictive internet environment.
- Unlimited bandwidth for uninterrupted access.
- 45 days refund guarantee
- Virtual servers offer different experiences than local physical servers.
- Connections problem on Mac
- No Free Plan
3. Windscribe: Best Free VPN for Iran with Adblocker
- Strong Encryption Protocols
- Free Version Offered
- 3 Days Money Back Guarantee
- 50 Server Locations (11 in Free Version)
- Accepts Bitcoin Payments
- Offers OpenVPN encryption
Windscribe is the best free VPN for Iran, particularly due to its integrated ad blocker and malware protector. It enhances browsing by eliminating intrusive ads.
Server Locations
Windscribe offers 11 free server options USA, the UK, Canada, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Romania, Hong Kong, Germany, Turkey, and Norway that are accessible from Iran. However, Turkey is the closest free server for optimal speed to maintain better performance and reliability.
My Experience
In my testing, the Windscribe Turkey server effectively bypassed censorship on Iranian platforms Al Kawther, iFilm, and Farsi1. The VPN handles geo-restrictions well, providing access to news outlets and social media platforms as well.
Using the free Turkey server of Windscribe, I enjoy watching Al Kawther online.
Bandwidth Limit and Speed Performance
The free version of Windscribe provides a generous 10GB monthly data limit, sufficient for regular browsing and light media consumption. Speeds are generally good but vary based on server distance and network congestion.
On a 100 Mbps connection, the Windscribe speed test maintains a 65.21 Mbps download speed, sufficient for most online activities, including HD streaming.
With these speeds, I faced no buffering throughout streaming.
Security and Privacy Features for Iran
Windscribe offers AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch that protects data if the VPN connection drops. The free plan includes limited access to R.O.B.E.R.T. to block ads and malware. This feature enhances browsing security and efficiency, particularly valuable for users in Iran where internet security is a paramount concern.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections
Windscribe is compatible with various devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The free version allows unlimited simultaneous connections, protecting multiple devices under a single account.
Free Trial and Pricing
The free version is an effective Windscribe free trial, which is quite capable with a nearby free server location and 10 GB bandwidth. Users looking for more can opt for the paid version, which offers access to all server locations. Pricing is competitive and starts at $5.75/month.
- Nearby free server in Turkey
- Includes an effective adblocker.
- Capable of unblocking a wide array of Western content.
- Strong security measures are suitable for Iran’s internet restrictions.
- Free version has a 10GB monthly data limit.
- Speeds can fluctuate, especially on distant servers.
4. ProtonVPN: Best Free VPN for Iran with Unlimited Bandwidth
- Freemium Version to the Users
- Users can Cancel at any Time
- In-built Kill Switch
- Multi-Hoping Capability
- OpenVPN and IKEv2(For Mac)
- Tor Servers
ProtonVPN is the best free VPN for Iran for its unlimited bandwidth offering. This feature is crucial in a region where internet freedom is frequently compromised, and data limits can hinder consistent online activities.
Server Locations
ProtonVPN provides access to 5 free servers in the United States, Romania, Poland, Netherlands, and Japan. While these are not the closest geographically, they ensure reliable connections with good speeds due to well-optimized network routes.
My Experience with Unblocking Western Sites in Iran
From my experience, the nearby Turkey server of ProtonVPN effectively circumvents Iranian internet restrictions and successfully unblocks the Jame Jam online broadcast. I could easily switch between channels and binge-watch Persian series without buffering interruptions.
I catch up on James Jam’s live news through the protonVPN server in Turkey.
Bandwidth Limit and Speed Performance
One of the standout features of ProtonVPN is its unlimited bandwidth, which allows for continuous streaming, downloading, and browsing without worrying about data caps. My ProtonVPN speed test gave a 65.12 Mbps download speed and 59.32 Mbps upload speed on a 100 Mbps connection.
ProtonVPN speed is pretty good for streaming.
Security and Privacy Features
ProtonVPN’s commitment to security is evident through its AES-256 encryption, strict no-logs policy, and Secure Core architecture, which routes traffic through multiple servers to enhance security. Moreover, the Stealth feature helps avoid censorship particularly beneficial in a high-surveillance region like Iran.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections
ProtonVPN works across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Given the restrictions on app store access in Iran, it offers an open-source app that can be downloaded as an APK, making it the best free VPN for Iran for Android. The free version allows one device connection at a time.
Free Trial and Pricing
The ProtonVPN free trial is indefinitely robust, with unlimited ads and bandwidth. Still, the paid versions offer significant enhancements for additional features, such as more server options. The pricing for paid plans is reasonable, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Learn more about this Iran VPN free service in my ProtonVPN review.
- Unlimited bandwidth on the free plan.
- Strong security features are suitable for navigating Iran’s internet restrictions.
- Effective at unblocking a wide range of Western content.
- The free plan limits users to one simultaneous connection.
- Paid plans are required for access to servers closer to Iran.
5. TunnelBear – Free VPN for Iran with a Friendly Interface
- Multi-Login Features
- GhostBear Feature
- Secures from DNS Leaks Issues
- Offers Little Free Plan
- Blocker for Google Chrome
- Compatible with Leading Platforms
TunnelBear is an acclaimed free VPN for Iran as an easily navigable service. Its friendly interface and robust security measures make it a top choice for safely navigating the web in Iran.
Free Server and Nearby Server Locations
TunnelBear offers 5000 free servers in around 47 countries, including Europe and Asia, relatively close to Iran. These nearby servers help maintain a more stable and faster connection for users in Iran.
My Experience with Unblocking Western Sites in Iran
My experience with TunnelBear has shown its nearby servers are quite effective at unblocking Iran TV channels, including entertainment platforms and news websites commonly blocked by Iranian ISPs.
Tunnelbear server in Neighbouring countries allows me to watch Irani TV channels.
Bandwidth Limit and Speed Performance
TunnelBear’s free version comes with a 2GB monthly data cap. I conducted a TunnelBear speed test, specifically focusing on its streaming capabilities. On a 100 Mbps connection, I observed download speeds of 54.26 Mbps and upload speeds of 31.40 Mbps.
Tunnelbear free server offered decent speeds on 100 Mbps
Security and Privacy Features for Iran
TunnelBear ensures user security with strong AES-256 encryption and a clear no-logging policy, crucial for protecting data in a surveillance-heavy environment like Iran. Additionally, it includes VigilantBear (kill switch) and GhostBear (obfuscation technology) to enhance security and privacy.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Connections
TunnelBear is compatible with major platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Apart from that, the VPN extends its support to popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. Its free version allows unlimited simultaneous connection, which is uncommon for free VPN offerings.
Free Trial and Pricing
While the TunnelBear free trial provides basic access, its paid plans offer unlimited data and additional features. The pricing for these plans is competitive, considering the extra benefits like multiple simultaneous connections.
If you want to know more, read my comprehensive TunnelBear review.
- Strict no log policy
- Unlimited device simultaneous connection
- Extremely user-friendly interface, ideal for beginners.
- Strong security features suitable for Iran’s restrictive internet landscape.
- Limited monthly data on the free plan.
- No Live Chat support
Comparison of the Best Free VPN for Iran
Here is a comprehensive comparison of the best free VPN Iran to cater to your needs:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| Total Servers Countries | 105 countries | 100 countries | 69 countries | 91 countries | 67 countries |
| Obfuscated Technology | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bandwidth | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 GB/mo | Unlimited | 2 GB/mo |
| Downloand Speed on 100 Mbps | 89.42 Mbps | 75.47 Mbps | 65.21 Mbps | 65.12 Mbps | 54.26 Mbps |
| Simultaneous Device Limit | 8 | 7 | Unlimited | 1 on the free plan | Unlimited |
| Audited No Log Policy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days | 45 days | 3 days | 30 days | No |
| Premium Price | $6.67/mo (280556.88 IRR) | $2.03/mo (85386.87 IRR) | $5.75/mo (241859.38 IRR) | €4.99/month 224595.85 IRR) | $3.33 per month (140068.13 IRR) |
My Testing Methodology for the Best Free VPN for Iran
I followed a meticulous testing methodology to ensure the recommended VPNs for Iran meet exceptional standards. Here are the features I look for to select the best VPN for Iran free:
- Functionality in Iran: The VPN must reliably work in Iran. I selected VPNs that offer obfuscation technology to mask VPN traffic, ensuring nearly 100% functionality within the country.
- Strong Security Features: Given the serious nature of online surveillance in Iran, the VPN must have robust security features. The VPNs I recommend all have a strict no-logs policy, automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and 256-bit AES encryption.
- Unblocking Capabilities: With the Iranian government actively restricting access to global streaming services, social media, and Western websites, the chosen VPNs are proven to bypass these restrictions effectively.
- Obfuscation Technology: Similar to conditions in countries like China, Iran’s internet censorship is stringent. The VPNs tested include obfuscation features to conceal the use of a VPN, which is crucial for avoiding detection.
- Bandwidth and Speeds: For uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and downloading, high-speed connections are essential. ExpressVPN, known for its superior speeds, stands out among the selections.
- User-Friendly Features: An easy-to-use interface is vital for regular VPN use. I’ve included VPNs like Tunnelbear in my recommendations, which are known for their simplicity and ease of use, making them suitable for beginners.
- Device Compatibility: Since all devices are susceptible to tracking and geo-blocks, I focused on VPNs that offer comprehensive app support across major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- Excellent Value: Finding a VPN with a good balance of features, performance, and pricing is important. This ensures you get a high-quality experience without breaking the bank.
Internet Censorship in Iran
According to the report by Freedom House, Iran’s global freedom status has declined by two points to just 12 out of 100. This reduction reflects a tightening grip on the internet, severely limiting access to a wide range of digital content.
The Iranian government blocks numerous Western websites, labeling them as anti-Islamic or counter-revolutionary. Popular social media platforms and networking sites like Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram are also inaccessible to the Iranian public.
In response to the stringent internet controls, users are exposed to a higher surveillance risk. The best VPN for Iran, with a free trial like ExpressVPN can help bypass censorship for connecting to the worldwide internet community and exercising the freedom of expression.
Why do I Need a Free VPN for Iran?
Due to strict government regulations and censorship, a free VPN is crucial for internet freedom and security in Iran. Here are the main reasons why a VPN is necessary in Iran:
- Bypass Internet Censorship: Iran’s government has been pushing The Protection Bill, further isolating the country from the global internet. A VPN helps bypass these stringent restrictions, allowing uncensored access to information and services.
- Access Global Social Media Platforms: In Iran, access to many Western social media platforms and websites deemed anti-Islamic or counter-revolutionary, like Instagram and WhatsApp, is blocked. Using a VPN, I can circumvent these digital blocks and freely use these sites within Iran.
- Protect Your Privacy: ISPs in Iran are known to monitor and track user activities, including website visits and search queries. A VPN protects your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, making it unreadable to ISPs or other prying eyes.
- Avoid Internet Throttling: The Iranian government controls the internet infrastructure, including the power to throttle or slow down your internet speeds deliberately. A VPN can help prevent this throttling, ensuring faster and more reliable internet access.
- Unblock Geo-Restricted Content: Many global streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ are blocked in Iran. A VPN changes your virtual location to access these services and enjoy a broader range of streaming content.
How Can I Use a Free VPN in Iran for Privacy and Security
Access to app stores may be restricted in Iran, so you must have an Iranian VPN APK to download a VPN. Here’s how to download VPN for Iran free:
- Choose a VPN with strong security features and a track record of bypassing censorship. I recommend ExpressVPN!
- Look for the direct download link for the APK file to install the app using the APK file.
- Connect to a server in a less restrictive country and close to Iran for optimal performance.
- Turn on features like kill switch and DNS leak protection to safeguard your connection and prevent accidental leaks.
- With the VPN connection established, your internet traffic is encrypted, and your online activity is more private.
Note: Always use a VPN for legal purposes only and disconnect when not in use.
Is it Safe to Use a Free VPN for Iran? [Risks & Limitations]
Using a free VPN in Iran may appear viable to circumvent censorship and protect online privacy. However, the safety of free VPNs can vary greatly. Many pose risks to security and confidentiality and could potentially track and sell your data to third parties.
Free VPN services in Iran often entail considerable limitations, including:
- Poor Encryption: Free VPNs often lack the advanced security features to protect against Iran’s sophisticated surveillance methods. With inadequate encryption, your sensitive data could be vulnerable to cyber threats and government scrutiny.
- Data Sharing: Many free VPN providers may engage in practices that could endanger your online privacy Iran, such as collecting and selling user data to third parties.
- Ads and Malware: You may be bombarded with ads, and there’s a risk of malware, which can harm your device and compromise your personal information.
- Inadequate VPN Capabilities: Free VPNs may not effectively bypass internet censorship Iran. They might also have bandwidth limitations, speed caps, or a restricted number of servers, which can severely limit access to global information.
Free VPNs to Avoid in Iran
When considering an Iran VPN free option, know that some may compromise your privacy by collecting and selling your data or providing insufficient encryption. Some free VPNs I recommend to avoid in Iran include:
| Free VPN Providers | Why I did not include them in my list of the best free VPNs for Iran |
|---|---|
| HOXXVPN: | HOXXVPN collects user data and sells it to third parties for advertising. It has suffered from slow speeds and unreliable connections, leading to a subpar browsing experience. Read my HOXX review to learn about its services. |
| HolaVPN: | HolaVPN has faced criticism for selling user bandwidth to other users. This raises significant security and privacy concerns. Read the HolaVPN review to learn in detail. |
| Hide.me: | Hide.me free version imposes a restrictive monthly data limit and only offers access to limited server locations, limiting options for bypassing restrictions and accessing content. Read my Hide.me review to learn about its capabilities in detail. |
Best Free VPN for Iran According to Reddit
Reddit highlights the struggles of finding a free VPN that tackles Iran’s strict internet censorship. While options like ProtonVPN and Windscribe are mentioned, users raise concerns about data caps, slow speeds, and, most importantly, these free services might not be strong enough to bypass Iran’s sophisticated blocking techniques.
My Suggestion: Prioritize Security with a Premium VPN
Look, premium VPNs like ExpressVPN might involve a cost, but consider it an investment in your online freedom and security. ExpressVPN boasts robust features, a vast server network, and a proven ability to bypass restrictions in challenging regions.
Top Free VPN Services for Other Regions
In case you’re visiting another country, here are a few free VPN guides for other countries:
| Best Free VPN for South Africa | Explore the Rainbow Nation’s Online Realm with Security |
| Best Free VPN Finland | Stay Secure and Connected in Finland. |
| Best Free VPN for Norway | Safeguard Your Online Privacy and Access Any Content in Norway. |
| Best Free VPN Spain | Access your favorite Spanish classics for free with these VPNs. |
| Best Free VPN For Thailand | Navigate Russia’s Web Space Freely and Securely |
FAQs – Best Free VPN for Iran
What is the best VPN for Iran for free?
The best VPN for accessing a free and open internet in Iran is ExpressVPN. As a leading VPN provider, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and powerful features that help bypass governmental restrictions effectively, allowing users to explore the internet without limitations.
Which free VPN has an Iran location?
Due to the country’s strict internet regulations, most free VPNs do not offer servers in Iran. However, CyberGhost, a premium VPN service, provides 26 virtual servers in Iran and over 11,500 servers across 100 countries globally. With CyberGhost, you can easily obtain an Iranian IP address and IP addresses from many other countries.
Is free VPN allowed in Iran?
Using tools like virtual private networks (VPNs) designed to bypass internet censorship is prohibited in Iran. This follows a directive from the country’s Supreme Council of Cyberspace, endorsed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
How do I get an Iranian IP address free?
To obtain an Iranian IP address for free, you can use a VPN service that offers servers in Iran. For instance, CyberGhost VPN provides 26 virtual servers in Iran, allowing you to access Iranian content and services as if you were locally based.
Is it illegal to use a free VPN in Iran?
Yes! It is now illegal to use a VPN service in Iran without a legal permit following a new resolution issued by the country’s National Virtual Space Center. This ruling, signed off by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, restricts the use of VPNs to only those who have obtained the necessary authorization.
Wrapping UP!
With the Iranian government’s stringent internet restrictions, the quest for the best free VPN for Iran is paramount. However, choosing the right VPN is paramount to ensuring access to global content and undisturbed online privacy in Iran.
For secure internet access Iran, I recommend a trusted paid VPN like ExpressVPN that offers comprehensive security and privacy features suitable for high-risk environments.
