A Chromebook is an excellent option if you want to boost your security. Google's Chrome OS is one of the most secure operating systems available, rarely suffering issues with viruses or malware. It's not perfect, mind, as malicious apps can still sneak into the Google Play store, but for the most part, Chrome OS does a great job at keeping you safe.

One way you can boost your security and privacy further is with a virtual private network (VPN). But with so many VPN providers, which is the best VPN for a Chromebook?

Why Use a VPN With a Chromebook?

If the Chromebook already has good in-built protection, is it worth using a VPN?

Well, overall, yes, using a VPN does come with a few security and privacy applications, along with the ability to access geo-restricted or even skirt restrictions in your local network.

Chrome Browser Extension VPN vs. Google Play Android VPN

While on the face of matters a VPN always performs a similar role, where the VPN is installed means how it works will differ.

In short, Chromebook users have two options regarding VPNs: installing a Chrome browser extension or installing an Android VPN via Google Play.

This matters for two reasons:

  1. A VPN installed in Chrome will only protect data sent and received within your browser.
  2. A VPN installed as an Android app from Google Play will protect all of your incoming and outgoing data.

The difference in name is small, but the difference in protection is substantial. Where possible, installing the Chromebook VPN as an app on the system is the better option for privacy and security. But for some Chromebooks, it just isn't an option.

Now, read on for three of the best Chromebook VPN options, each of which offers both installation options.

1. NordVPN

Sitting pretty at the top of the best paid VPNs for Chromebook list is one of the best options in the VPN market, Chromebook or not. NordVPN's continuing track record as one of the top no-log VPNs makes it an easy choice for Chromebook users and Windows, macOS, and Linux users alike.

Moreover, because NordVPN offers both an Android and a Chrome extension, all Chromebook users can make use of the service to protect their data (as some older Chromebook models don't support Android apps).

Related: Which VPN Is Best? Surfshark vs. NordVPN Plans and Features Compared

NordVPN offers Chromebook users the choice of more than 5,000 servers spread throughout 60 countries, with no limits on downloading, uploading, or streaming. Furthermore, with NordVPN's no-log policy, you can rest assured that your data will remain private, even if the authorities come knocking at NordVPN HQ.

A NordVPN subscription comes in at $11.95 per month or $119 annually. However, sign-up using our link to grab extra time on your NordVPN subscription, extending your subscription completely free of charge.

2. CyberGhost

Next up for your consideration is CyberGhost, another VPN outfit with an outstanding reputation and an app for your Chromebook. Like NordVPN, CyberGhost users have the option to download the CyberGhost Android app to use on the Chromebook itself or alternatively download the Chrome browser extension. Either option provides ample security, but the Android app is only available for compatible Chromebook hardware (i.e., your Chromebook must support Google Play).

Related: CyberGhost VPN Review: Fast, Secure, and Easy to Use

You'll find the CyberGhost app easy to use, mind, offering a wide range of VPN servers to connect through to secure your data. At the time of writing, CyberGhost operates more than 6,000 servers in over 88 countries, offering nearly unrivaled VPN access for Chromebook users.

A CyberGhost Chromebook subscription will set you back $12.99 per month. However, that is for a logless, no-restriction VPN service with an almost unfathomable number of servers, which also drops if you opt for a yearly subscription. Alternatively, sign-up for a CyberGhost using our unique link to grab a sign-up discount!

3. Surfshark

Landing in the final spot on our Chromebook VPN list is Surfshark, another outstanding no-long VPN service with apps for both Google Play and your Chrome browser.

While Surfshark may have fewer servers than its competitors, coming in 3,200 servers across 65 countries, you'll still find the overall service and connection quality excellent. Furthermore, Surfshark constantly evaluates where its servers are and how to improve its VPN offerings for its users, so you can find a location that better suits you added to the service.

Like CyberGhost and NordVPN, Surfshark is a third-party audited no-log VPN service. This means that rather than just telling everyone that the company doesn't keep a log of your activity while connected to the VPN, it invited an independent team to confirm—which they did. So, you can rest assured that Surfshark will protect your Chromebook internet connection.

A Surfshark subscription comes in at $12.95 per month. Like the other options, the longer the subscription you opt for, the bigger the discount you'll receive when you sign-up. But if you want an extra bonus when you sign up for a Surfshark VPN, make sure to use our special link.

Should You Use a Free VPN?

We'll keep it short: in a pinch, a free VPN is okay, but otherwise no, you should opt for a paid VPN service that values your privacy, doesn't collect logs, and ensures your security.

Related: Reasons to Avoid Using Free VPNs for Netflix

Not only will you fail to sign into Netflix or other media streaming services, but your data could also be at risk, which is just not what you want.

What's the Best Paid Chromebook VPN Client?

When it comes to VPN services, Chromebook users are surprisingly well catered for. More people than ever before are using Chromebooks for work, school, and everything in between, meaning that the big names in VPN services all offer Chromebook VPN services. When Chromebooks first launched back in 2011, finding a VPN was incredibly difficult, especially finding one that would actually respect your privacy.

So, what's the best VPN for Chromebook users?

Honestly, between the three Chromebook VPN services on this list, you don't need to look much further. Other VPN services offer both a Chrome browser extension and a Google Play app for Android devices. But between server options, connection speed, and the overall quality of service, you'll be hard pushed to find better Chromebook VPN options elsewhere.