For Windows users—especially developers, remote workers, and security professionals—a reliable VPN isn't just about accessing geo-blocked content; it's a fundamental layer of digital defense. With evolving threats and increased scrutiny of online activities, selecting a VPN that combines robust encryption, consistent speeds, and user-friendly operation is critical. ZDNET's latest hands-on testing identifies the top contenders that excel on Microsoft's platform.

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Main interface of a leading Windows VPN client (Credit: ZDNET)

The Testing Ground: How We Evaluated

Our assessment prioritized:
- Performance Metrics: Real-world speed tests across global servers
- Security Protocols: Implementation of WireGuard, OpenVPN, kill switches, and no-logs policies
- Windows Integration: App stability, UI clarity, and feature accessibility
- Value Proposition: Cost relative to features and connection allowances

Top Windows VPN Performers

1. NordVPN: Best Overall

"NordVPN sets the bar with its exceptional blend of speed (consistently topping benchmarks), a vast server network spanning 111 countries, and intuitive Windows client. Its specialty servers for P2P and Double VPN add versatility." - ZDNET Testing Team
- Standout Features: Threat Protection (blocks malware/ads), Meshnet for secure device networking, 10 simultaneous connections
- Ideal For: Developers needing reliable connections for deployments and security teams requiring advanced configurations
- Pricing: From $3.09/month (2-year plan)

2. ExpressVPN: Speed Champion

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ExpressVPN delivers unmatched connection reliability
- Performance Notes: Minimal latency loss (under 15% in ZDNET tests), Lightway protocol optimized for Windows
- Key Advantage: Consistent access to streaming APIs/dev portals for developers testing geo-specific services
- Caveat: Higher cost; limited to 10 devices on base plan
- Pricing: From $3.49/month (2-year plan)

3. Surfshark: Budget Powerhouse
- Value Play: Unlimited device connections at just $2/month
- Windows Perks: Clean interface, Pause function (temporary VPN disable), RAM-only servers
- Compromise: Slightly slower peak speeds than Nord/Express

4. Proton VPN: Privacy-First Option
- Security Credentials: Open-source, audited apps, Swiss jurisdiction
- Free Tier: Viable for basic Windows protection (limited servers)

5. IPVanish: Unlimited Connections
- Windows Customization: Detailed server metrics (ping/load) for power users
- Use Case: Ideal for IT managers securing multiple corporate devices

Why Windows Needs Special Consideration

Unlike mobile-first VPNs, Windows clients often handle:
- Resource-intensive tasks (CI/CD pipelines, large transfers)
- Complex network configurations (corporate VPNs, WSL integration)
- Legacy system support (Windows 10/11 compatibility nuances)

Implementation Guide

# Typical Enterprise Setup Flow:
1. Download installer from vendor portal (avoid third-party stores)
2. Run EXE with admin privileges
3. Authenticate via SSO or device code
4. Select protocol (WireGuard recommended for speed/security balance)
5. Enable Always-On VPN + Kill Switch in settings

The Encryption Imperative

With credential theft and man-in-the-middle attacks targeting Windows environments (Microsoft reported 50B+ password attacks in 2024), VPNs provide essential transport-layer security—especially on public networks. As zero-trust architectures gain adoption, VPNs remain crucial for secure remote access to development environments and cloud resources.

Ultimately, the best VPN aligns with your threat model: NordVPN leads for comprehensive protection, ExpressVPN for latency-sensitive tasks, and Surfshark for multi-device households. All recommended services offer 30-day refunds for real-world validation on your workflow.

Source: ZDNET Testing Labs, October 2025 (Original Article: Best VPN for Windows)