10 Best VPN Services for Startups in 2026

Startups looking for secure and private connections to the internet will need a virtual private network (VPN) software. VPNs will not only protect your browsing data, but also provide additional security and privacy tools. Here are the best VPN services in 2026 to consider for startups.

Unsure if Surfshark is right for you? Continue reading our comprehensive review below to learn more and explore your options.

Top VPNs for Startups

Surfshark 4.7/5 Visit Site	Best VPN Service Overall User-friendly interface Unlimited simultaneous connections
NordVPN 4.5/5 Visit Site	Best for Advanced Features Utilizes WireGuard technology Includes a multitude of features
Check Point 4.4/5 Visit Site	Best for Business Use Easy to scale Dedicated servers
ExpressVPN 4.3/5 Visit Site	Best for Server Options Large number of VPN servers Great customer support
OpenVPN 4.2/5 Visit Site	Best for Flexibility Very powerful and flexible Can install on a variety of operating systems
CyberGhost 4.1/5 Visit Site	Best for Add-ons Huge server fleet available Includes helpful add-ons like antivirus
StrongVPN 4/5 Visit Site	Best for Security Tools Large number of servers other companies don't offer Additional security and privacy tools offered
Private Internet Access 3.8/5 Visit Site	Best for Speed One of the most well-established VPN services Strong speed test scores
Norton Secure VPN 3.6/5 Visit Site	Best for Ease of Use Ease of use Established brand
Hotspot Shield 3.5/5 Visit Site	Best for Free VPN Free VPN Servers in multiple countries

A VPN software can add a significant layer of online privacy to any business activities you conduct. By encrypting your data and transferring it to a server privately held by the VPN company, these services hide your activities from your internet service provider (ISP) and any other prying eyes. Advertisers and others with questionable motives will have a lot harder time tracking your business activities with a VPN. 

In this review, we’ll look at 10 different popular services to help you find the best VPNs for your small business needs. We compare key features, including security levels, price, interface, ease of use, and more. By the end of this review, you should have a clearer picture of what VPN service is right for your company. 

The following VPN providers are the best we have found for startups. Read on to learn more.

Best VPN Services:

1. Surfshark
2. NordVPN
3. Check Point
4. ExpressVPN
5. OpenVPN
6. CyberGhost
7. StrongVPN
8. Private Internet Access
9. Norton Secure VPN
10. Hotspot Shield

1. Surfshark: Best VPN Service

There are few brands as well-known in the VPN industry as Surfshark, and for a good reason. The reliable and trusted company has evolved beyond just VPN services to offer a full security suite that protects your entire digital presence.

The split tunneling tool gives you the option to pick and choose which websites you want full protection on with your Surfshark VPN. You can also carry your protection over to unlimited devices across your entire network.

What sets Surfshark apart is its tiered approach – you can start with just the essentials or upgrade to include antivirus protection, data breach monitoring, and even automated personal data removal from data brokers. This flexibility makes it ideal for startups that may need to scale their security as they grow.

Pricing 

Surfshark starts at $1.99/month for the Starter plan, with the One plan at $2.49/month and the One+ plan at $3.99/month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and often include promotional extra months.

Notable Features

• Split tunneling tool
• Multi-hop
• Kill Switch
• Alternative ID (email generator)
• Antivirus protection (One and One+ plans)
• Data breach alerts (One and One+ plans)
• Private search engine (One and One+ plans)
• Incogni data removal (One+ plan)

Pros

• Easy to use interface
• Competitive pricing
• Comprehensive security bundle options

Cons

• Advanced security features require higher-tier plans
• Some features may be overkill for basic VPN needs

2. NordVPN: Best for Additional Features

When most business VPN services are looking to focus on one or two features, NordVPN takes a different approach by providing an abundance of features through its tiered plans. The Basic plan delivers fast, secure VPN protection, while higher tiers add comprehensive security tools that make it a great VPN for startups.

NordVPN's Plus plan includes Threat Protection Pro, which actively blocks ads, malware, and phishing attempts, along with a password manager and data breach scanner. The Complete plan adds 1TB of encrypted cloud storage, while the Prime tier includes advanced identity protection with credit monitoring and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance coverage.

You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with NordVPN across all plans, making it a great VPN provider for small businesses that need comprehensive protection.

Pricing 

NordVPN starts at $3.39/month for the Basic plan (2-year commitment), with the Plus plan at $4.39/month, Complete at $5.39/month, and Prime at $7.39/month. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and higher tiers include Amazon gift cards as limited-time bonuses.

Notable Features

• Multi-hop
• Split tunneling
• Threat Protection Pro (Plus tier and above)
• Password manager (Plus tier and above)
• 1TB encrypted cloud storage (Complete and Prime)
• Identity theft protection (Prime only)
• 10 simultaneous connections

Pros

• Utilizes WireGuard technology
• Includes a multitude of features across tiers
• Numerous VPN server locations
• Amazon gift card bonuses on higher plans

Cons

• More expensive than some competitors
• Advanced features limited to higher-priced tiers

3. Check Point: Best for Scaling

Check Point's SASE platform (formerly Perimeter 81) has evolved into a comprehensive security solution designed specifically for businesses. If your startup is growing fast and you realize the need for enterprise-grade online protection, Check Point is a great option. The service is designed for businesses of all sizes and features a simple-to-use interface.

What sets Check Point apart is its agentless Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), allowing secure access to specific applications without installing software on every device. This is particularly useful for contractors and third-party workers who need limited access to company resources. The platform provides granular control over who can access what, with everything managed from a single cloud console.

Check Point doesn't just offer scaling opportunities, but it's very easy to set up and use for companies that haven't used a VPN connection or set one up before. The browser-based access means users can connect to authorized applications with just a click after logging in.

Pricing 

Check Point offers four pricing tiers to match different business needs. The Essentials plan requires a minimum of 10 users and includes basic network security features. The Premium plan (also 10 users minimum) adds advanced features like 100 firewall policies and 10 agentless applications. Premium Plus (20 users minimum) increases these limits significantly, while Enterprise (50+ users) offers unlimited access and customization.

Contact Check Point directly for specific pricing.

Notable Features

• Agentless Zero Trust Network Access
• Cloud-based firewall with customizable policies
• Device posture check
• Single Sign-On (SSO) integration
• Browser-based application access
• WireGuard protocol support
• Split tunneling
• 24/7 support (Enterprise plan)

Pros

• Easy to scale as your business grows
• No hardware requirements
• Agentless access for contractors
• User-friendly cloud management

Cons

• Minimum user requirements may not suit very small startups
• Many security features are add-ons requiring additional cost

4. ExpressVPN: Best for Server Options

What makes ExpressVPN special compared to other VPN providers is its far reach of servers to utilize. With servers in 105 countries, whether you want to appear logged in from your own country or others around the world, you can find what you're looking for with ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN has evolved beyond just VPN services to offer a comprehensive security bundle. All plans now include not only the core VPN service with ad and tracker blocking, but also password management, ID theft protection with $1 million insurance coverage, credit monitoring, and even data removal services. The inclusion of eSIM data for international travel is a unique bonus that sets it apart from competitors.

ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol ensures blazing-fast speeds while maintaining security, and you can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously across all major platforms.

Pricing 

ExpressVPN starts at $4.99/month with the 2-year plan (plus 4 free months), totaling $139.72 for 28 months. The annual plan costs $6.67/month with 3 free months ($99.95 for 15 months), while the monthly plan is $12.95. All plans include the same comprehensive security features and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Notable Features

• Lightway protocol for fast speeds
• Password manager included
• ID theft insurance ($1 million coverage)
• Credit monitoring and reports
• Data removal service
• eSIM data (1-5GB depending on plan)
• 8 simultaneous connections

Pros

• Extensive global server network
• Comprehensive security bundle included
• 24/7 live chat support

Cons

• More expensive than many competitors

5. OpenVPN: Best for Full Customization

OpenVPN is an open-source technology, making it the top choice for technical teams wanting total control over their security. For businesses wanting its power without the manual setup, the company offers CloudConnexa, a managed cloud solution designed for business.

Pricing 

The OpenVPN protocol is free if you configure it yourself. The managed CloudConnexa service has a free tier for up to 3 connections, with paid plans starting at $7.00/month per connection (five-connection minimum).

Notable Features

• Open-source protocol
• Managed cloud solution
• SSO integration
• Intrusion detection system

Pros

• Extremely powerful and flexible
• Can be installed on almost any OS, Free tier for very small teams

Cons

•  Need significant technical knowledge for advanced features

6. CyberGhost: Best for Large Teams

CyberGhost is ideal for growing teams, offering seven simultaneous connections and one of the industry's largest server fleets. It focuses on delivering core VPN features like speed, streaming optimization, and ease of use exceptionally well.

Pricing 

A monthly plan is $12.99. For better value, a six-month plan is $6.99/mo, while the two-year plan is $2.19/mo. Long-term plans include a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Notable Features

• Secure NoSpy servers
• Malware and ad blocking
• Optimized streaming servers
• 7 simultaneous connections

Pros

• Huge global server fleet
• Confirmed no-logs policy via third-party audit
• Great connection speeds

Cons

• Some competitors bundle more security features like password managers

7. StrongVPN: Best for Simultaneous Connections

StrongVPN stands out with its generous 12 simultaneous connections, making it great for teams with many devices. While its interface is less modern than some rivals, it provides powerful protection using the industry-standard WireGuard protocol.

Pricing 

Choose between a monthly plan at $11.99 or an annual plan for $3.97/month ($47.69 for the first year). All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Notable Features

• 12 simultaneous devices
• WireGuard protocol support
• StrongDNS for smart TVs

Pros

• Large connection limit
• Reliable speeds
• Good for geo-unblocking content

Cons

• The interface feels less modern than top competitors

8. Private Internet Access: Best for Ease of Use

A long-standing and trusted VPN, Private Internet Access combines a simple interface with a rare feature: unlimited simultaneous connections. It's an excellent value for businesses needing to cover all their devices without complexity.

Pricing 

Pay $11.95 month-to-month or choose a longer plan for big savings. A one-year plan is $39.95, while the three-year plan is just $79.

Notable Features

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• MACE (ad/tracker blocker)
• Split tunneling and multi-hop

Pros

• Well-established and transparent
• Audited no-logs policy
• Excellent value with competitive pricing

Cons

• More expensive than some competitors

9. Norton Secure VPN: Best for Existing Norton Users

From the well-known security brand, Norton Secure VPN is best for existing Norton customers who want a basic, integrated VPN. While the interface is clean, it lacks key features found in competitors, like city-specific server selection and a universal kill switch.

Pricing 

Pricing is per device. First-year promotional cost is typically $29.99 for one device, $39.99 for five, and $59.99 for ten.

Notable Features

• User-friendly platform
• Ad-tracking blocker
• Wi-Fi Security alerts

Pros

• Ease of use
• Familiar, longstanding brand for computer security

Cons

• Security vulnerabilities
• Can’t select city-specific servers, only country

10. Hotspot Shield: Best for Bundled Services

Hotspot Shield's main appeal is its bundled services, offering a security suite that includes a 1Password password manager, a spam call blocker, and identity theft protection. It offers a free, ad-supported tier, but the paid plans unlock the service's full value.

Pricing 

The Basic plan is free (with ads). The Premium plan is $12.99/month or $7.99/mo annually for 10 devices. The Premium Family plan covers 25 devices across five accounts for $11.99/month (billed annually).

Notable Features

• Free option available
• Bundled security services
• Servers in 80+ countries

Pros

• Free VPN for basic use
• Includes valuable third-party security subscriptions

Cons

• Free version is slow and has ads

Review Methodology

Our review methodology for VPN services covered the key factors that matter most when considering a software. Using these criteria, we determined what services were the best for our readers. 

We evaluated the best VPNs based on the following criteria:

Ease of Use

VPNs are created using complex technologies, but so are many of the tech tools we use today. A user-friendly solution simplifies the process of connecting and securing network traffic, allowing employees to focus on their tasks rather than grappling with complex configurations.

Features

The most important features of a VPN service include encryption,no-logs policies, simultaneous device connections, speed, number of servers and server locations, third-party security audits to verify the quality of services, and more. We looked for all the features that were most vital for a VPN and rated offerings accordingly.

Pricing

VPNs have all gone up in price over recent years, but some more than others. It’s still possible to get a great solution for very little money, which is why we were particularly critical of services that cost more than they should.

Customer Support

When you have a problem with your software, you should be able to get help in a timely manner. The best services include high-quality customer support that is thorough and accessible.

What to Look for in VPN Services

We want to be sure that you get the best provider for your needs. To help with that, we recommend you look for the following in VPN service providers:

Security

Security is usually the most important consideration when choosing a VPN provider. If you didn’t care about security, you wouldn’t bother with one. Some of the most important security considerations include a no-log policy (not keeping records of what you do online), IP hiding, and refusal to cooperate with inquiries from outside parties. 

The best VPN providers all take basic security measures like the ones above. If they don’t, they are not worth your money and could actually pose a risk to your security.

Speed

Security is very important, but it also needs to be fast enough to use regularly. Some VPNs are much faster than others, so this is a factor that can really set a provider apart. 

Some VPN services are way too slow to use. Take Hotspot Shield’s free VPN service. It’s free, but it also crawls along so slowly it’s not practical to use for most people. If it takes minutes to load a webpage, you are going to quickly get tired of using the VPN and go back to regular internet use.

Money-Back Guarantee

We always recommend trying a VPN provider out for a short period of time before committing to a year contract. You might not like it, or it might not work for your needs. Ideally, the software should offer a money-back guarantee so it’s easy to get a refund if you aren’t happy. 

Fortunately, most VPN providers offer a money-back guarantee. Some are a full 30 or 45 days, while others are just a week or two. Be sure to check the length of your guarantee when you sign up so you know when you have to make your decision.

Simultaneous Connections

Most providers offer a set number of simultaneous connections. The number they offer is the number of connections you can have to the VPN at the same time. For example, you might want to use the VPN for your laptop and your mobile device. 

Some VPN providers offer unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a feature that could be quite handy for some small businesses. Before you choose a provider, make a quick tally of all the connections you will possibly need at the same time. Generally, it’s better to look for a provider that offers more than you need now so your business can scale with the provider.

Encryption Strength

Encryption is one of the cornerstones of the security a VPN offers. If the encryption is not strong, it’s easy for hackers to break and expose your traffic as a result. 

The industry-standard encryption is currently 256-bit, which is what you should expect from your provider. Some providers only use 128-bit encryption, but there is no reason to settle for that when you can easily find 256-bit encryption from multiple providers.

Dedicated IP Address

A dedicated IP address means you are the only user of an IP address. This is important for accessibility and security. It’s also required for some services, so it’s worth demanding from your provider.

Frequently Asked Questions