June Wan/ZDNET
I’m going to start off by saying that when presented with a free VPN service, I typically turn and run because most of those services cannot be trusted one bit. Even some paid VPN services aren’t always what you think they should be.
However, there are some VPNs that carry with them a reputation for being secure, stable and trustworthy. Nearly all of those VPNs have an associated cost, some of which can only be used for free during a trial period.
And then there’s ProtonVPN.
Also: Best VPN services 2025: How the fastest VPNs with the best networks stack up
ProtonVPN has developed a very good reputation because the service and the apps are stellar. I’ve used ProtonVPN on Linux and Android for quite some time and have always been pleased.
But what if you don’t have the budget for a paid ProtonVPN account and you’re 100% certain you need a trustworthy VPN for your Android device? What do you do? You’re in luck because you can use ProtonVPN on Android for free.
Before you get too excited, using ProtonVPN for free means you’ll lack a few features. For example, you can only protect one device at a time, you get medium VPN speeds and you’re limited to servers in five countries. You also do not get the opportunity to choose which server you use. As a result, you won’t be able to masquerade your device as a specific location.
Also: 3 things to consider when buying a new VPN – and why ‘free’ isn’t always best
Even so, a limited (trusted) VPN is still better than none (especially when you’re connecting to insecure networks).
How to install ProtonVPN
What you need: An Android device and an Internet connection. That’s it. Let’s dive in.
In the Google Play Store, search for ProtonVPN. When you see the entry, tap Install and allow the process to complete. Once installed, you can then launch the ProtonVPN app from within your Android’s App Drawer.
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Using ProtonVPN for free on Android
This is actually the easy part. When you open ProtonVPN, do not sign in or create an account. Instead, from within the app, tap Connect.
Make sure not to sign in or create an account, so you can use ProtonVPN for free.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
You’ll then be prompted to OK the connection. Tap OK, and ProtonVPN will make the connection. You can then optionally enable notifications in case your connection status changes.
You have to OK the connection, or it won’t be made.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
Once the connection is made, you’ll see that you’re connected to a new server, and the app will show that you are protected.
I’m connected and protected.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
You can also tap to disconnect or change the server; just remember that you’re limited to five countries and the server will be randomly selected.
Also: How to use a VPN on Linux – and why you should
And that, my friends, is how you can use ProtonVPN for free on Android. Remember that if you want more servers to choose from and faster speeds, consider paying the $4.50-per-month fee for the VPN Plus plan.
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