Best VPN with a kill switch feature: stay private and secure in 2025

With more people using public Wi-Fi and remote working in 2025, a VPN kill switch became a necessity for online privacy. It is a critical feature that automatically blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops, preventing your real IP address and data from being leaked. This ensures your location, identity, and browsing activity stays hidden, even during brief connection interruptions.

But here’s the catch: not every VPN offers a kill switch, and even fewer do it well. After testing 24 top providers, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN stood out for their ability to reliably prevent data leaks. They also maintain strong privacy protections and offer consistent performance across different platforms.

In this guide, I will walk you through how to get a kill switch VPN, and explain why it is important to protect your privacy, especially if you are downloading torrents, bypassing censorship, or using public Wi-Fi.

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Top 5 kill switch VPNs

1. NordVPN - overall best VPN with kill switch
2. Surfshark - speedy and always-on kill switch VPN
3. Proton VPN - open-source and a built-in kill switch VPN
4. TotalVPN - beginner-friendly VPN with basic kill switch
5. IPVanish - robust VPN kill switch for streaming and torrenting

While not all VPNs offer reliable kill switches, the ones below stand out due to their well-tested implementations that reliably prevent data leaks during sudden interruptions. As a result, I tested 24 VPNs to see which ones protected my data best by cutting off my internet connection if the VPN disconnected. As a simulation of real-life situations, I switched servers, disconnected my Wi-Fi, and turned off the VPN mid-session. I then monitored whether any traffic leaked through during those moments. In each case, I checked that the kill switch blocked all connectivity and that the VPN either auto-reconnected or required manual reconnection with no data exposure in between.

Top 1. NordVPN - best overall VPN with a kill switch

NordVPN is the most secure VPN with kill switch protection, ensuring your internet connection remains safe at all times. During my tests, NordVPN’s kill switch consistently provided seamless protection, instantly blocking traffic whenever the VPN connection dropped.

Kill switch strength. NordVPN offers two types of kill switches: a system-level “Internet Kill Switch” that blocks all internet traffic if the VPN fails, and an app-level “App Kill Switch” that lets you choose which applications to block, like your torrent client or browser. Once the VPN tunnel is restored on Windows, iOS, and Android, NordVPN automatically reconnects and disengages the kill switch, which I found very convenient, as you do not need to reset it manually. Unfortunately, this automatic feature isn’t available on the Mac yet.

Configuration tips. The first step is to disconnect from NordVPN. On Windows, open the NordVPN app, go to Settings, then Kill Switch, and choose between two modes: blocking internet access only if the VPN drops unexpectedly (default), or blocking internet access both when you disconnect manually and if the VPN drops. For Android, go to your device’s Settings, press Connections, then More connection settings and VPN, tap on the gear icon next to NordVPN, then enable Always-on VPN and Block connections without VPN. Moreover, for iOS and macOS App Store versions, the kill switch is enabled by default and requires no manual setup. Note that NordVPN’s kill switch feature is not available on Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Other benefits. Additionally, NordVPN impressed me with its fast speeds, especially when using the NordLynx protocol. When I tested this protocol for streaming and gaming, it performed better than many competitors, retaining 96% of speed. NordVPN operates from Panama, a privacy-friendly country, and has a strict no-logs policy, using AES-256 encryption with multiple protocol options, including OpenVPN. Plus, NordVPN's Meshnet feature, which enables me to connect multiple devices directly, worked smoothly while keeping all traffic secure.

Price. You can get NordVPN starting at $3.39/month with current deals, allowing you to choose the plan that best fits your needs. Android users can try the service risk-free for 7 days and benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Top 2. Surfshark - fast and affordable kill switch VPN

Surfshark stands out as a fast and affordable VPN with a kill switch that offers powerful, reliable protection for $1.99/month. Moreover, its built-in kill switch, Rotating IP, and NoBorders mode hide all VPN activity in restricted regions like China, or for those seeking extra security.

Kill switch strength. Surfshark offers an integrated kill switch for the network and application interface. It blocks all internet traffic if the VPN disconnects and lets you block specific apps like your torrent client or browser. On Windows, iOS, and Android, the kill switch automatically reconnects and disengages once the VPN connection is restored, making it hassle-free.

Configuration tips. You should disconnect Surfshark first. To enable the kill switch on Surfshark, open the app, go to Settings, and toggle the Kill Switch on. In this way, your internet connection will be immediately disconnected if the VPN drops, protecting your IP address and data from accidental exposure.

Other benefits. Surfshark uses strong AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy that gives solid privacy from the start. During my testing, I was also impressed by its speed using the WireGuard protocol, which retained around 94% of my base speed during my streaming and torrenting tests. CleanWeb also added another layer of protection, along with its kill switch, by blocking ads, trackers, and malware.

Price. As Surfshark is already a budget-friendly option, you can use a discount code to receive 87% off. If you want to try kill switch protection before purchasing, you can do it with a 7-day free trial. Plus, you will be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee in any case.

Top 3. Proton VPN - free VPN with a kill switch feature

Proton VPN stands out as the best free VPN with a kill switch thanks to its unmatched dedication to privacy and advanced safety features rarely found in free services. Besides being open-source and audited, it is based in Switzerland, a country with strong privacy laws.

Kill switch strength. Proton VPN provides two levels of kill switch protection. The standard kill switch automatically blocks all external network traffic if the VPN connection is interrupted, preventing any data leaks until the connection is re-established. For users on Windows and Linux, the advanced kill switch offers even more security by ensuring your device cannot connect to the internet unless it's connected to a Proton VPN server. This protection persists even during system boot-up and shutdown, offering continuous, uninterrupted coverage.

Configuration tips. Start by disconnecting from Proton VPN. On Windows, select the NetShield shortcut on the Home screen (you can also access the kill switch settings via the Settings menu). Toggle the kill switch on. You can now choose between a Standard kill switch and an Advanced kill switch. Once you're done, click Apply. On MacOS, open the Proton VPN app and go to the Countries tab, then the Kill Switch icon, and press Kill Switch On. From here, you can also turn off the Kill Switch.

Other benefits. Proton VPN uses strong AES-256 encryption and supports secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. While the free plan grants access to servers in five countries, the paid plans unlock extras like SecureCore routing. Further, I was able to maintain around 86% of my base rate with the help of high-speed servers and the VPN Accelerator. Plus, the NetShield ad blocker prevents targeted ads, privacy-invading trackers, and malware from damaging your device.

Price. Proton VPN's paid plan starts at $3.59/month with a discount code, offering enhanced speed, server options, and advanced security features. If you change your mind, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Top 4. TotalVPN - cheapest kill switch VPN

TotalVPN is the best cheap kill switch VPN if you’re looking for privacy and simplicity without overspending. What makes it stand out is how affordable it is while still offering kill switch protection. Just note that the kill switch only works on Windows and Mac, so it’s not the best pick for iPhone users. But if you're torrenting, streaming, or browsing public Wi-Fi from your desktop, it's a solid choice for keeping your data safe.

Kill switch strength. The kill switch is built in, but it’s only available on Windows and macOS. I tested it on Windows, and it blocked internet access when the VPN dropped, but it didn't handle sudden disconnects well. Once the VPN client closed, the kill switch didn't activate quickly enough to stop all traffic. Also, the manual setting disables itself when the VPN disconnects, but re-enables itself automatically once the VPN reconnects. I was unsure whether the protection was always on due to that inconsistent behavior. Moreover, Android users can use the system's Always-On VPN feature to mimic a kill switch, but iOS users don't get this protection.

Other benefits. TotalVPN is based in Panama and follows a strict no-logs policy. It supports OpenVPN with AES-256 encryption. Despite its relatively small server fleet, I got 84% retention speeds, which was more than enough for HD streaming. Although it does not have as many advanced features as NordVPN or Surfshark, it offers great value.

Price. TotalVPN costs $1.59/month, and it’s also bundled with TotalAV Internet Security for added malware and ad-block protection. You can start with a 7-day free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee before you make a commitment.

Top 5. IPVanish - easy-to-use kill switch VPN for beginners

IPVanish is a solid kill switch VPN for beginners, especially because it makes powerful privacy tools easy to use across different platforms. It offers standard kill switch protection on macOS, Android, and iOS, blocking all internet access when the VPN connection becomes unstable. What really sets it apart is its flexibility on Windows, where you can customize how the kill switch behaves. For example, you can block only LAN traffic or disable all local network interfaces.

Kill switch strength. IPVanish offers two types of kill switches: network and application-level. An internet kill switch shuts off all online traffic the moment the VPN disconnects, and an app kill switch lets you cut access to selected programs. I found this useful when I only wanted to shield my torrents from everything else online. Surprisingly, on Windows, the kill switch worked consistently, and I liked that it reconnected to the VPN automatically. That said, unlike NordVPN, IPVanish doesn’t provide reconnection automation on Mac.

Configurations tips. Firstly, disconnect from IPVanish server. On Windows. Click on the Settings Gear icon on the left, click on the Connection tab, and toggle the kill switch. If you want to block all internet traffic and any local network traffic (like Plex or NAS servers) once you have disconnected from IPVanish, you can enable Block LAN Traffic. On macOS. To activate the kill switch, click on the Network Security tab, and then click the checkbox next to the kill switch option.

Other benefits. During my testing, speed was surprisingly solid, as I retained around 92% of my base connection. Moreover, IPVanish uses the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols with AES-256 encryption for even better performance. This is also a no-log VPN based in the US, which is not ideal for privacy purists, but audits have shown it is trustworthy.

Price. Subscriptions at IPVanish start at $2.19/month with a discount code. It does not offer a free trial, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best kill switch VPNs compared

While many VPNs claim to offer a kill switch, not all provide reliable protection when your connection drops. I've tested 24 VPNs with kill switches to identify which truly safeguard your data from accidental exposure. Here's a comparison of the best performers:

How does a VPN kill switch work?

A kill switch is a built-in safety feature that protects your privacy if the VPN connection suddenly drops. Without it, your device might reconnect using an unsecured network, exposing your IP address, location, and data to prying eyes. Here is how kill switch works:

• It constantly monitors your VPN connection in the background.
• If the VPN drops, due to unstable Wi-Fi, switching networks, or server issues, it instantly cuts off internet access.
• This stops your real IP and browsing activity from leaking, even for a second.

That’s why this kind of automatic shutdown is not just a technical safeguard. Instead, it is a core layer of protection that keeps your data and identity from slipping through the cracks. Below you will see the importance of it:

• Data protection. Kill switch prevents your information from being exposed to hackers, ISPs, or anyone else on public networks.
• Privacy. It keeps your real IP and location hidden at all times.
• No IP leaks. The VPN kill switch feature blocks all traffic until the VPN safely reconnects, so nothing slips through the cracks.

Whether you are torrenting, working remotely, or just browsing in a café, a kill switch locks your data down.

How to test a VPN kill switch?

Testing the VPN connection drops is simpler than you might think, and I have personally used this method to confirm its reliability. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Enable the kill switch. First, activate the kill switch feature on your VPN application's settings. Its exact location might vary slightly depending on your VPN provider.
2. Connect to a VPN server of your choice.
3. Initiate an online activity. Once connected, start an online activity. This could be anything from browsing a few webpages to streaming a video. The goal is to generate active internet traffic.
4. Manually disconnect the VPN. This is a crucial step. While your online activity is ongoing, manually disconnect your VPN connection directly from the application. Do not just close the app; disconnect it completely.
5. Check for traffic stoppage and IP concealment. Immediately try loading a new webpage or, even better, visit a site like WhatIsMyIPAddress.com. If your kill switch functions correctly, your internet traffic should cease immediately. You should not be able to load any new pages. Instead, it should indicate a complete lack of connection or an error.

In some cases, the kill switch does not function as expected, and your internet remains active or reveals your real IP after disconnecting from the VPN. Here are the troubleshooting steps:

• Recheck your VPN settings. Double-check that the kill switch is enabled in your VPN application. Some VPNs offer different levels of kill switch protection (e.g., application-level vs. system-level).
• Restart your VPN and device. A simple restart of both your VPN application and your computer or mobile device can often resolve glitches.
• Update your VPN software. Ensure your VPN client is up-to-date, as updates often fix software bugs.
• Contact VPN support. If all else fails, contact your VPN provider's customer support. They can offer specific guidance on their software and help diagnose the issue.

Final thoughts: protect your digital data from accidental exposure

A VPN kill switch is one of the most important tools for anonymity online. This built-in safety feature disables internet access if your VPN disconnects, keeping your real IP, location, and browsing history private. A kill switch is essential for torrenting, logging in to public Wi-Fi, and bypassing geo-restrictions.

After testing multiple providers, I recommend NordVPN as the best and most reliable VPN with a kill switch feature. It offers both system-level and app-level kill switches, so you can stay protected no matter how you connect, even if your VPN drops unexpectedly. Proton VPN stands out as a solid and robust free alternative. With a Swiss base and a strong no-logs policy, its free plan includes a kill switch – a rarity among free VPNs.

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FAQ

Are VPN kill switches reliable?

No VPN kill switch is 100% reliable, but top-tier providers make them highly dependable. A kill switch cuts your internet connection the moment your VPN drops, preventing accidental IP or data leaks. After extended testing, NordVPN offers the most consistent and effective kill switch features. You should always manually enable the kill switch in your VPN settings and test it to ensure it works.

Should the VPN kill switch be on or off?

Yes, you should keep the VPN kill switch on. The kill switch acts as a safety net, blocking internet access if your VPN connection suddenly drops. This prevents your real IP address, location, or other online activity from being leaked. With the kill switch enabled, you can torrent, use public Wi-Fi, or access content in restricted regions.

Do all VPNs have kill switches?

No, not all VPNs include kill switches. While most top-tier VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark offer this feature by default, some lower-end or free VPNs either don’t offer it at all or limit it to paid plans. Exceptionally, there is Proton VPN, which includes a kill switch even on its free plan.

Does NordVPN have a kill switch on Android?

Yes, NordVPN includes a kill switch on Android, but it’s disabled by default. To turn it on, open the NordVPN app, tap on your profile icon, go to Settings, then select Kill Switch. You’ll also see a prompt guiding you to your Android system settings; there, enable Always-on VPN and Block connections without VPN for full protection. If the kill switch isn’t working properly, try toggling it off and back on within the app.

Why does my VPN connection keep dropping?

VPN connections can sometimes drop due to unstable internet, overcrowded servers, or interference from firewalls or antivirus software. If your connection drops frequently, try switching to a different server, changing the VPN protocol (like switching from OpenVPN to WireGuard), or checking your local network stability. Also, you can disable the battery optimization and sleep mode settings on your mobile device if they interfere with your VPN. You can also fix problems by updating or reinstalling your VPN app.

Is a VPN kill switch necessary for torrenting?

Yes, a VPN kill switch is especially important for torrenting. In many cases, users leave their devices downloading for hours, and if the VPN disconnects during that time, their real IP address may be exposed. That is why using a kill switch, your identity and activity remain hidden until your VPN connection is restored, even if you're not actively monitoring the downloads.