Best VPN for DDoS protection in 2024

Overwhelming an online service to the point of a shutdown with excessive internet traffic is called a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. Hackers use this method to swarm a website or server with thousands of requests per second until it inevitably breaks and is temporarily unusable.

This attack method is also used in competitive online gaming to shut down opponents. And since gaming is so widespread, it’s crucial to have an accessible and easy-to-use solution.

A remedy comes in the form of a virtual private network. A VPN protects you against DDoS attacks by redirecting your web traffic through a different network from your own. That way, your online activities remain undisturbed. Read on to find out which services are the best for DDoS protection!

Top five best VPNs for DDoS protection

1. NordVPN

   Best VPN for DDoS protection
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   DDoS protection for unlimited devices
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Affordable VPN for DDoS protection
   8.7
4. IPVanish

   VPN for DDoS protection and other security benefits
   8.4

Why do you need a VPN for DDoS protection in 2024?

The basic principle of a VPN is the redirection of web traffic through a remote server. By enabling a virtual private network, a user can:

• Get around geographical restrictions and censorship
• Hide their IP address
• Get military-grade encryption
• Protect themselves from phishing and DDoS attacks
• Block malicious ads and trackers

Of course, not every VPN service is equipped with the same toolbelt. Some specialize in changing your Netflix region, while others focus on anonymity. DDoS protection is typically relevant to competitive gamers since it prevents your opponent from shutting you down. On the other hand, online businesses also need security to ensure that nobody can take down their service or website.

When running a VPN in the background, it’s vital to use a service that won’t slow down your web traffic to a halt. You can guarantee adequate performance by picking a fast VPN provider with the latest tunneling protocols. Naturally, it also needs an expansive and well-performing server network to withstand a DDoS attack.

Best VPNs for DDoS protection: overview

Choosing a VPN for DDoS protection may appear daunting when there are so many services to consider. Luckily, we’ve narrowed it down to five providers that will ensure that your web activities remain protected against unexpected DDoS attacks.

1. NordVPN – the Best VPN for DDoS protection
2. Surfshark VPN – DDoS protection for unlimited devices
3. PrivateVPN – Affordable VPN for DDoS protection
4. IPVanish – VPN for DDoS protection and other security benefits

Picking any one of these will prevent DDoS attacks and keep your gaming sessions uninterrupted.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for DDoS protection

The best VPN for DDoS protection by far is NordVPN. It has more than a decade of experience in the cybersecurity field and is a go-to choice for millions of customers.

Firstly, NordVPN runs a network of 7000+ servers in 118+ countries. Many of these servers boast RAM-only hardware to guarantee privacy on a fundamental level. Besides that, you can opt for a dedicated IP option if you need a permanent but secure IP address.

The multifacetedness of NordVPN is exemplified by its ability to effortlessly unblock geo-restricted content on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and more. Meanwhile, online security can be enhanced by enabling features like Obfuscated Servers and CyberSec.

You can get a taste of the service by claiming the NordVPN 7-day trial on the Google Play Store. After that, pricing begins at $2.99/month on long-term plans. Furthermore, buyers can access great deals by utilizing various NordVPN discount codes.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – DDoS protection for unlimited devices

Surfshark is the perfect choice for those needing to protect an undisclosed number of devices from DDoS attacks. One subscription provides unlimited simultaneous connections and stellar performance.

For starters, Surfshark is equipped with 3200+ servers in 100+ countries. All hardware utilizes RAM-only technology to ensure confidentiality on a fundamental level. Plus, the software can be expanded with bonus features against viruses and data breaches.

Surfshark VPN is a solid option for expanding HBO Max or other streaming platform libraries. Besides that, users can enable features like Camouflage Mode, NoBorders Mode, and Multihop for protection against multiple digital threats.

A Surfshark free trial is available on either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Otherwise, subscription prices start at $2.19/month, but alternative deals are available with the help of Surfshark coupon codes.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – affordable VPN for DDoS protection

Sometimes picking a small but efficient service is preferable to an industry leader. If that’s what you’re after, look no further than PrivateVPN.

PrivateVPN runs a tight-knit network of 200+ servers in 63+ countries. Remarkably, all servers are owned and operated by the provider. Moreover, VPN connections are facilitated with the tried and tested OpenVPN tunneling protocol.

Besides that, some servers are optimized specifically for streaming. They make it exceptionally easy to access bonus shows and movies on Disney Plus, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Naturally, PrivateVPN can provide bonus online security if you enable Stealth VPN, Application Guard, and the VPN kill switch.

Potential buyers can get a test run of PrivateVPN thanks to the 7-day free trial. Otherwise, a commitment with the provider starts at $2.00/month. Naturally, you can find alternative pricing options with the help of PrivateVPN coupon codes.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. IPVanish – VPN for DDoS protection and other security benefits

IPVanish is closer to a full-fledged cybersecurity tool rather than just a VPN. Besides DDoS protection, customers can use it for privacy and protection against viruses.

In terms of server coverage, IPVanish has 2200+ in 51+ countries. The company fully owns the hardware and operates without any third parties. Plus, mind-blowing connection speeds are ensured with the modern WireGuard tunneling protocol.

Like any other premium VPN, IPVanish works reliably at unblocking geographical restrictions. It’s a solid choice for getting more out of a Hulu or Netflix subscription. Furthermore, the VPN is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon FireOS devices.

Sadly, IPVanish does not have a free trial to get a feel for the app. However, buyers are secured with a 30-day money-back guarantee if they’re not certain at first. Lastly, subscriptions start at $2.19/month if you provide a valid IPVanish coupon code at checkout.

For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.

What should I look for in a VPN for DDoS protection?

Since VPNs are meant to run in the background practically all the time, they should provide various benefits. Here are some features you should consider when picking a service for DDoS protection and other uses.

• Security. First and foremost, a VPN for DDoS protection needs to focus on digital security. You can be certain that a provider is up to the task if it’s packed with features against malicious ads, phishing attacks, malware, and more.
• Servers. Server quality is crucial since that’s what’s tested when dealing with a DDoS attack. Top VPNs avoid third-party server providers and instead run the whole operation themselves.
• Speed. If you’re a competitive gamer that needs DDoS protection while online gaming, it’s crucial that the VPN doesn’t cause lag. Peak performance can be ensured with top-of-the-line tunneling protocols, for example, WireGuard.
• Compatibility. A VPN won’t protect you if it doesn’t have apps for your system. Luckily, most are compatible with desktop and mobile devices. Meanwhile, users can fill in the gaps by setting up a router with a virtual private network.
• Price. The most expensive service is not necessarily the best. However, that doesn’t mean that free VPNs are good enough either. Instead, look closely at the offered features and then find a VPN coupon code to get a discount on a long-term contract.
• Privacy. VPNs are commonly used to hide personal information from ISPs, hackers, and other snoopers. The most privacy-focused VPN services have been independently-audited and are located away from the gaze of the Fourteen Eyes alliance.
• Customer support. Not all services are easy to understand, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. That’s why it’s paramount to pick a VPN that offers 24/7 customer support in case you’re stumped with an issue.

Can I use a free VPN for DDoS protection?

In a nutshell, free VPNs are just stripped-down versions of premium products. They might market themselves as adequate solutions, but in reality, they’re plagued by numerous downsides, such as:

• Monthly or daily data usage caps
• Throttled connection speed
• Miniscule server selections
• Subpar security features
• Poor geo-unblocking capabilities
• High likelihood of data logging and selling

Therefore, you should pick a premium VPN service if you want the best possible protection against DDoS attacks. Additionally, many virtual private networks have free trials if you want a risk-free test run.

Should I be concerned about DDoS attacks?

While hackers can use DDoS attacks against practically anyone, online businesses, governments, and even gamers are the most common targets. Specifically, DDoS attacks are executed by flooding a website with login requests. Meanwhile, game lobbies are taken down with excessive connection attempts until the server crashes.

However, most modern games have plenty of safeguards against such exploits. Plus, using a VPN on your device won’t protect the video game developer's server. DDoS is only a concern if you’re playing via LAN or hosting your own game server, for example, a Minecraft world.

Regardless, a virtual private network grants protection from numerous threats simply by hiding your actual IP address. It prevents DDoS attacks, masks your true location, reduces the likelihood of swatting, and curbs geo-blocking. Even if you’re not a die-hard competitive gamer, we recommend using a VPN as a precaution against other dangers.

Bottom line

Distributed denial of service attacks are a severe problem that can strike anyone unexpectedly. As such, it’s crucial to arm yourself with 24/7 reliable protection. The best option for everyday use is a VPN for DDoS protection. It will shield your system and absorb the attack, keeping your online activities uninterrupted.

Which VPN would you use for protection against DDoS attacks? Share your preferences by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

What is DDoS and how does it work?

A distributed denial of service attack is a cyberattack that sends excessive web requests to an online server until it can’t handle them and shuts down. DDoS attacks are relatively simple but require an extreme amount of devices to execute. Typically, they use swarms of malware-infected devices to target a particular person or service.

Are DDoS attacks illegal?

Yes, using a DDoS attack against anyone is considered a cybercrime. Hackers typically use distributed denial of service attacks to shut down an online service, website, or even a particular player in a multiplayer game.

Can a VPN stop DDoS attacks?

Yes, a VPN is a great way to prevent DDoS attacks. Firstly, it changes your IP address and encrypts your web activities, making you harder to track. Secondly, the excess web traffic from the attack will be directed at the VPN server and not your system.

Can a free VPN protect against DDoS attacks?

No, it’s unlikely that a free VPN will protect you against DDoS attacks. First off, they’re usually prone to DNS or IP leaks, meaning a resourceful hacker could still target your system directly. Additionally, no-cost VPNs are poorly-maintained and could have other potential exploits in the software.