Best VPN for Microsoft Edge Browser in 2024
Edge is a Chromium-based, cross-platform web browser created by Microsoft. It is suitable for both Windows and mac computers and offers great performance, a sleek design, and high customizability. Though this Internet Explorer replacement also boasts better protection features, Microsoft Edge is still vulnerable to average internet dangers.
The best way to mitigate any privacy and security dangers on Edge is by utilizing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). These tools completely hide your online identity, making you invisible to all third parties, thus untraceable and untargetable. Of course, the best Edge VPNs also provide other perks – learn about them below.
Shortlist of best VPNs for Microsoft Edge
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The best VPN for Edge browser
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Edge VPN with top-notch privacy
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Versatile VPN for Microsoft Edge
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VPN for Edge with malware protection
How to set up a VPN for Edge
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN provider. You can never go wrong with NordVPN, now 74% off!
- Install the appropriate VPN client for your device
- Pick a server closest to you for the best performance
- Benefit from a more secure Edge browsing experience!
Why do you need a VPN for Edge Browser?
Because Edge is based on the same source code as Chrome, they share similar security credentials. Which is great since the latter is among the safest browsers you can use today. Unfortunately, it applies to vulnerabilities as well, especially concerning privacy.
You are not 100% protected from third-party snooping. It’s likely Microsoft itself participates in this – they’re not exactly known for respecting users’ wishes not to share their private data. Then there are ad companies, governments, and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who have no qualms about tracking your every move online.
Premium VPNs take care of this by encrypting your traffic with an unbreakable cipher. You become hidden, making it virtually impossible to trace anything back to you. This technology also improves your Edge experience in other ways:
- Geo-block circumvention. Not every page on the net is accessible everywhere, thanks to various copyright laws or censorship. These restrictions can be bypassed with a VPN, though. All you need is to change your IP address.
- Threat protection. Cyber dangers abound on the world wide web in the form of digital attacks and malicious software. Your average Edge VPN prevents these from harming you with encryption and anti-malware measures.
- Stopping bandwidth throttling. Ever wonder why everything’s loading so slow even though your internet is supposed to be extra fast? Your ISP is probably throttling you for your data-intensive activities. Well, they can’t limit what they can’t see.
Best VPNs for Edge: overview
- NordVPN – a high-grade VPN for Edge
- Surfshark VPN – Microsoft Edge browser VPN with no device limit
- PrivateVPN – affordable, well-rounded VPN for the Edge Browser
- IPVanish – reliable & robust VPN for Microsoft Edge
The top VPNs for Edge must include several crucial aspects. First, an assurance there’s no data-logging happening behind the scenes, hence strict no-logs policies. Then the essential tools that keep you hidden – AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection.
As for performance, we checked for sizable server fleets coupled with the latest tunneling protocols like WireGuard. And since the Edge Browser is available on all major OS, dedicated apps for Windows, mac, Android, and iOS are mandatory. Finally, VPN browser extensions for Edge are a nice touch for that extra privacy boost.
1. NordVPN – #1 VPN for Edge browsing
118
7000
24/7, email
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VPN extension for Edge browser
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RAM-only standard servers
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Independently-audited and secure
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No router app
Achieve ultimate security & anonymity with NordVPN, the best VPN for Edge. Hailing from Panama, the provider operates under a twice-audited no-logs policy, proving its reliability. A subscription nets you the necessary features, plus a couple of extras. Like Double VPN, which routes traffic via two servers for twice the encryption.
Network-wise, you can utilize the 7000+ servers in 118+ countries’ strong fleet for all kinds of needs. With NordLynx on your side, streaming, torrenting, gaming are extra smooth and lag-free. Moreover, there is dedicated hardware for different purposes – P2P, Onion Over VPN, and obfuscated.
NordVPN makes Edge safe to use with a couple of things. Threat Protection is one, shielding you from malware, user trackers, and intrusive ads. And, of course, we can’t forget the Edge VPN extension. It comes with WebRTC blocking, Threat Protection Lite, split tunneling, and 4 locations (US, UK, CA, DE).
The lowest plans start at $2.99/month, and all come with 10simultaneous connections. You can also try using a NordVPN coupon to get a lower price. Either way, test this superb Edge VPN via the 7-day free trial (Google Play Store) or commit from the get-go with the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark VPN – Edge browser VPN with RAM-only servers
100
3200
24/7, FAQ
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Infinite connections
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Edge browser extension
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Tons of features at low price
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Unaudited no-logs policy
If you want to secure every device you own that has Edge, Surfshark VPN is made for you. It’s a lightweight Microsoft Edge VPN with handy features, a no-logs policy, and a browser extension. This provider guarantees excellent protection no matter what, whether you’re surfing the web at home or on the go.
Subscribers get access to a truly global network of 3200+ RAM-only servers across 100+ countries. Performance isn’t lacking either when you put the next-gen WireGuard protocol to good use. But we can’t attribute low latency to this protocol alone, not when Software Defined Networking, introduced with the Nexus update, does the weightlifting.
You get a bunch of features with Surfshark. There are Camouflage and NoBorders modes (for censorship), CleanWeb (for malware & adware), and Multihop (double encryption). The highlight, in this case, is the VPN extension for Edge, which has WebRTC blocking and CleanWeb. It also includes the full server list as the VPN application.
Utilize a Surfshark VPN discount code to pay no more than $2.19/month for this Edge VPN. All subscriptions are protected with the 30-day money-back guarantee if you decide to back out. That’s not likely to happen, though, after taking the free 7-day trial out for a spin (via Google Play & Apple App Stores).
For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.
3. PrivateVPN – VPN for Microsoft Edge with broad device support
63
200
24/7
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High Quality Network for great speeds
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P2P-friendly
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Owns all hardware
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Lacks WireGuard
Keeping your online activities completely anonymous is easy with PrivateVPN. It meets most of the criteria for an excellent Edge VPN and includes versatile features, like Stealth VPN, at an affordable price. Although the provider doesn’t offer a browser extension, the client is more than enough for securing your traffic.
While the fleet is modest – 200+ servers in 63+ countries – it covers all continents. Furthermore, PrivateVPN owns and operates all hardware, eliminating potential third-party tampering. As for performance, the OpenVPN protocol and High Quality Network (HQN) ensure everything runs without a hitch.
Besides Application Guard, which terminates select apps if the service stops working, you’ll find P2P-oriented features. Both SOCKS5 proxies and port forwarding can boost your uploads and downloads. Then there’s split tunneling that routes VPN traffic via chosen application only, for example, the torrent client.
Coming with 10 simultaneous connections, this Microsoft Edge VPN can be yours for $2.00/month. Just don’t forget to apply a PrivateVPN coupon before finalizing the purchase. Take advantage of the 7-day free trial version or commit risk-free immediately, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.
4. IPVanish – VPN for Edge browser with no virtual servers
51
2200
24/7, email
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Unlimited connections
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Free VIPRE antivirus software
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Independently-audited no-logs policy
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No anonymous payment methods
Looking for security first, entertainment second Microsoft Edge VPN? Then don’t pass up on IPVanish. Its apps and no-logs policy have been certified by the highly-regarded cybersecurity firm Leviathan. Adding to that, the service is packed with robust features, useful whilst connected to home and public Wi-Fi networks.
This is one of the few providers that own their whole network – 2200+ servers in 51+ countries in this case. And lighting fast speeds are true and tested reality to boot. It’s made possible due to two factors: the WireGuard protocol and all physical hardware.
Bypass restrictive firewalls in mere seconds with the OpenVPN Scramble feature. IPVanish even goes a step further in ensuring total user protection by offering VIPRE antivirus. This tool shields your data and devices from prevalent online threats at no additional cost. The cherry on top is that you can use the VPN on as many devices as you need.
Purchase this top-grade VPN for Edge for the low price of $2.19/month after utilizing an IPVanish coupon. While there is no trial version available, it’s not much of a problem. Not when the 30-day money-back guarantee ensures you get every penny spent on the service.
For a deeper investigation of IPVanish, read our IPVanish review.
How to pick the best VPN for Microsoft Edge
Not the biggest fan of the Edge VPNs on our list? You’re free to look into other potential providers as well. Just remember to check whether they meet certain requirements:
- Utmost anonymity. Just because they shield you from surveillance doesn’t always mean they don’t monitor you themselves. That’s why it’s crucial to check the service’s stance on user tracking and whether they adhere to a strict no-logs policy. Bonus points go to independently-audited, verified policies.
- Guaranteed security. This is the feature trifecta we emphasized earlier – bank-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection. These are the ones keeping your actual online identity hidden at all times. Never go for a VPN that lacks any one of them.
- Global presence. Virtual access to all continents has two main benefits. First is that you’re bound to have several servers close to you – picking them improves connection speed & stability. The second is more foreign content, application, service, and streaming library options.
- Superb performance. Routing traffic through an encrypted tunnel naturally makes everything a bit slower. Drops in speed can be barely noticeable or non-existent, though, if you go for the fastest VPNs in the market. These utilize the latest tunneling protocols, like WireGuard, which facilitate low latency.
- Device compatibility. Edge is available on Windows, Android, mac, and iOS devices. So, the VPN should also offer dedicated, streamlined applications for these operating systems. And if you’re planning on utilizing this technology for other activities, look into additional device support and whether you can manually set up the VPN on your router.
- Reasonable price. High price doesn’t always equal high quality. Don’t be afraid to try cheaper VPNs for Edge if they have all the features you need, plus excellent performance. Most come with money-back guarantees, meaning you can get a refund if the service doesn’t live up to your expectations.
How to use a VPN in Edge
- Get a VPN suited for Microsoft Edge. Besides a robust application, NordVPN also offers an intuitive VPN extension for Edge.
- Download the software and install it on your PC or phone
- Connect to a VPN server depending on your needs
- Perform an IP and DNS leak test to ensure your identifiable data isn’t visible
- Open Edge and continue browsing like usual!
How to install Microsoft Edge VPN on different devices
Setting up a VPN for Edge is a pretty straightforward process. Still, the steps vary a bit in each case – thankfully, we provide detailed instructions below. And if you want the best experience, remember to get the appropriate VPN for your OS.
Setting up Edge VPN on PC (Windows & mac)
- Subscribe to a VPN compatible with Windows and mac. NordVPN provides streamlined clients for both operating systems.
- Download the VPN application from the provider’s official website
- Install the software on your computer, open it, and sign in
- Pick a server located in a country of your choice
- Congrats, now Edge and all internet traffic is protected!
Setting up Edge VPN on mobile (Android & iOS)
- Sign up for the best VPN for Android and iOS. You can achieve ultimate privacy on all mobile devices with NordVPN.
- Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, search for the VPN, and get it
- Once the setup is complete, boot up the application and sign into your account
- Select any server you want
- Now you’re safe to explore the world wide web via Edge!
Protect your Microsoft Edge browser
Does Edge have a built-in VPN?
At the start of 2022, Microsoft announced they’ll roll out a built-in VPN for Edge aptly titled “Edge Secure Network.” It’s still in the experimentation stage and available to a minimal pool of people with the Canary version of the browser. But is this security tool worth the wait? Let’s review what we know so far.
- Requires a Microsoft Account to use
- Powered by Cloudflare, a trusted DNS host
- Encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address but doesn’t let you change your virtual location, meaning no geo-block bypassing capabilities
- Currently, users get 1 GB of data per month for testing purposes, which is not a lot
As far as built-in VPNs go, Secure Network is not exactly spectacular. It only secures what’s happening on the browser, doesn’t even let you connect to another region, and there are no extra features (as of yet). The measly data limit is only good for browsing as data-hungry activities like streaming will use it up too quickly.
Then you can raise the question about user monitoring. In the official blog, Microsoft claims that a sign-in with a Microsoft Account is only needed for tracking how much data is left to use. No other information is sent through the Secure Network. In the case of Cloudflare, it only gets limited diagnostic data for troubleshooting purposes, which gets deleted after 25 hours.
In truth, no one is stopping one or the other from collecting data about you. Especially Microsoft, which has a track record of gathering personal information to “personalize their products” and “advertise and market to you.” Would you trust this company to provide a reliable, no-logs VPN?
VPN app vs. browser extension – which is better for Edge?
Both are security tools, but they operate on different levels and provide unequal protection. It’s pretty clear which option is better overall once you compare VPN extensions and client software.
VPN client | VPN extension | |
Protection level | All internet traffic, device-level | Only browser traffic, browser-level |
Encryption | AES-256 encryption | Usually none |
IP address | Hidden | Hidden |
Features | Kill switch, IP & DNS leak protection, adware & malware blockers, Stealth VPN, split tunneling, etc. | WebRTC leak protection |
Option to change region | Yes, extensive server list | Yes, limited server list |
It all boils down to the fact that VPN browser extensions are merely proxy services. It’s like a web filter tool that masks your connection, making it appear like it’s coming from a different location. What you’re doing online is still visible to third parties, though.
If you really want to utilize a VPN extension on Edge, we advise doing so together with proper VPN software. This way, you’ll cover all bases, achieving ultimate security & anonymity.
How to add a VPN extension to Edge
- Open the Edge browser and navigate to the Microsoft Edge Addons page
- Search for your desired VPN browser extension. Our top recommendation is NordVPN, which offers an extension with Threat Protection and a WebRTC blocker.
- Click on the Get button, and a window will pop up asking you to confirm the add-on. Select Add Extension, and the system will take care of the installation.
- Press the Extension icon at the top right corner of the Microsoft Edge browser and log into your VPN account
- Once that’s done, simply connect to any country you want. Just keep in mind the extension only secures your web traffic. For proper internet protection, we strongly recommend using a proper VPN client.
Get the best VPN extension on Edge
Microsoft Edge not working with VPN: solutions
Some Edge users report sluggish speeds and bad connectivity when using the browser in conjunction with a VPN. In some instances, blocked websites remain, well, blocked.
Thankfully, it’s something you can quickly fix yourself. Below are several troubleshooting tips worth trying:
- Update your software. No wonder nothing seems to work as intended if the browser or the VPN is outdated. Download the latest versions of all relevant software (VPN extension included) and see whether it fixes the problem.
- Check your internet connection. The fault may also simply lie with your internet. Disable the VPN and proxies and test how Edge loads websites without them.
- Delete unnecessary add-ons. Software conflicts are commonplace, especially when several extensions are installed on the browser. Remove the ones you don’t use and try again.
- Connect to another VPN server. You might’ve accidentally picked one that is overcrowded. There’s no harm in trying a different server.
- Test for IP & DNS leaks. These are your enemy in terms of unblocking geo-restricted content. You can check whether your actual IP address and DNS requests are visible via sites like ipleak.net and dnsleaktest.com.
Of course, it might be a more severe VPN-side issue, so contact your provider’s customer support for further information. Or you can switch to a reliable Edge VPN that delivers excellent performance without causing such a hassle.
What is the best free VPN for Microsoft Edge?
We strongly advise against using “completely free VPNs” as most providers of this kind dabble in shady practices. The first concern is that they tend to log user data extensively, defeating the purpose of this technology. Other not-so-great aspects include:
- Ad-ridden clients which display annoying advertisements left, right, and center
- Malware, adware, keyloggers, and other types of malicious software that get bundled with free VPN applications (a rare occurrence, but it happens)
- Unreliable features that expose you more than they hide you
- Outdated encryption methods, if the provider even includes any
- Infamously poor performance, attributed to absurdly-strict data caps, throttled speeds, and overcrowded servers
No matter how you look at this, going premium is the way to go if you’re serious about security & privacy. And to those who can’t afford it – many trustworthy VPN providers offer trial versions of their services. Sign up, utilize the app until the deadline, and then jump ship to another VPN. Repeat ad nauseam.
Free Edge VPNs to avoid
Some costless services kick it up a notch in terms of disregarding user safety. If you ever encounter them in the wild, steer clear of these free Edge VPNs:
- Betternet VPN. Collects and keeps extensive user data logs. IP & DNS leak protection tends not to work most of the time, plus there’s no kill switch. Recently, it was discovered the company injects user trackers and malware into their software.
- Hoxx VPN. Logs all user info and shares it with authorities if they issue a data request. It’s still unknown what kind of encryption is used to “protect” the free tier. What’s more, the client doesn’t include any standard security features.
- Psiphon. Collects information about you, shares it with their sponsors and litters the VPN client with intrusive ads based on the same data. Some of the software is outdated, and you can’t find a kill switch anywhere. Even worse, DNS leak protection doesn’t work.
Bottom line
On its own, the Microsoft Edge browser is pretty secure but not as safe as it could be. The same can be said for privacy. And since it's becoming more popular, even surpassing Safari in terms of users, these issues must be patched one way or another.
Currently, your best bet is getting a reliable, Edge-compatible VPN. Providers like NordVPN fulfill all expectations and exceed them in some cases. No one will be able to track you, and your browsing will be smooth as butter to boot.
What VPN service are you using for the Edge Browser? Let us know in the comments below!
You may also like to read:
Best VPN for Chrome
Best VPN for Firefox
Best VPN for Brave
Best VPN for Safari
Best VPN for Europe
Best VPN for Windows
Best VPN for Verizon Fios
Best Browsers with VPN
FAQ
Does Microsoft Edge come with VPN?
Microsoft Edge does not come with a VPN yet. Currently, Microsoft is working on a built-in VPN for this browser called Edge Secure Network. It will only encrypt what’s happening on the browser, though, so you’re better off utilizing a proper Edge VPN that secures all internet traffic.
How do I add a VPN to Microsoft Edge?
First, you subscribe to a reliable VPN for the Edge Browser. Then, go to the provider’s Downloads page and get the appropriate client for your operating system. Once the installation is complete, connect to the server of your choice, and you’re good to go.
Does Surfshark work on Microsoft Edge?
Yes, Surfshark VPN works with Microsoft Edge and is an excellent choice for this browser. The client is packed with tons of features, it bypasses geo-blocks in seconds, and connectivity is never an issue with the next-gen WireGuard tunneling protocol.
Does NordVPN work on Microsoft Edge?
Yes, NordVPN works with Microsoft Edge and is the best VPN for this browser. The service boasts incredible speeds, versatile tools, specialized servers for different needs, and broad device compatibility, allowing you to secure more than just your computer.
What is the best VPN for Edge?
The best VPN for Edge is NordVPN. It offers a robust security toolset, an extensive server network spanning all continents, tons of useful features, and speeds that make everything load extra fast, thanks to the in-house NordLynx tunneling protocol. Plus, the provider has a VPN browser extension for Edge.
- Shortlist of best VPNs for Microsoft Edge
- Why do you need a VPN for Edge Browser?
- Best VPNs for Edge: overview
- How to pick the best VPN for Microsoft Edge
- How to use a VPN in Edge
- How to install Microsoft Edge VPN on different devices
- Does Edge have a built-in VPN?
- VPN app vs. browser extension – which is better for Edge?
- How to add a VPN extension to Edge
- Microsoft Edge not working with VPN: solutions
- What is the best free VPN for Microsoft Edge?
- Bottom line
- FAQ