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The Best Russia VPNs That Work in 2024 — Tested and Secure
Reading time: 17 min
Updated on September 30, 2024
Written by: Osama ZahidCybersecurity Specialist
Fact-Checked by
Sarah Frazier
Cybersecurity Editor
The internet is heavily regulated in Russia, and many foreign news sources, social media platforms, and chat apps are inaccessible. Due to these restrictions, it’s critical to secure yourself with a VPN in Russia. VPNs encrypt your connection and ensure unrestricted internet access, letting you safely and freely use the internet from anywhere.
Not all VPNs work in Russia, as most of the ones that don’t conform to the government’s requirements are blocked. However, after extensive tests, I’ve found the best VPNs that work in Russia. These apps offer airtight security, many servers to choose from, and can work around VPN blocks.
Overall, ExpressVPN is the #1 VPN for Russia. All its servers obfuscate traffic, allowing safe and unrestricted internet access. It also has a no-logs policy to ensure your activity isn’t stored. Plus, the 30-day money-back guarantee lets you get a full refund if you’re unsatisfied. Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Important! While VPNs are not illegal in Russia, using one to access banned websites might be. My team and I don’t condone using a VPN for anything illegal and strongly recommend you research the latest laws and regulations to ensure you use VPNs responsibly.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Russia in 2024
Great Value For Money
1
1. ExpressVPN: Ranked #1 for Russia With Advanced Technology
Powerful obfuscation technology disguises VPN traffic to avoid Russia's proxy blocks and firewalls.
All servers feature top security - AES-256-bit encryption, RAM-based servers, zero-log policy, kill switch, and data leak protection
Impressive server network - 3,000+ servers, with nearby connections in Moldova and Kazakhstan
Fast connection speeds - Impressively fast for smooth streaming, torrenting, gaming, and browsing on local and long-distance servers
Every ExpressVPN plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
ExpressVPN — The #1 VPN for Russia, offering reliable obfuscation to ensure it isn’t caught by detection mechanisms.
CyberGhost — Offers a virtual Russian server location that provides a local IP, but it doesn’t have obfuscation.
Private Internet Access — Includes a massive network with many servers near Russia, but it’s based in the USA.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Why You Need a VPN in Russia in 2024
There are multiple reasons why you need a VPN if you want to safely use the internet in Russia in 2024. Some of these include the following:
Roskomnadzor. This regulatory authority controls Russian media, making it hard to access many websites and apps with a Russian IP. Also, it enforces strict data collection, meaning everything you do can be monitored.
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI). Russia uses Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) tools to filter keywords and avoid transmitting unfavorable data packets.
A VPN works by changing your IP address and encrypting your connection. This makes it look like you’re using the internet from another country, ensuring access to important websites. Plus, the encryption keeps government agencies and other third parties from spying on your traffic.
Russian Internet Censorship and Regulation
There have been several cases over the years of Russian agencies censoring and regulating the internet, further cementing the need for a VPN. Some of these include the following:
1. “The Telegram Blocking” (2018)
Roskomnadzor attempted to ban Telegram by blocking over 19 million IP addresses. While Telegram stayed online, hundreds of other websites were restricted. These include Twitch, MasterCard, e-commerce, and other banking websites. It took a month to make these services available again, even though they were never the target.
2. The Yarovaya Law (2016)
“The Yarovaya Law” criminalized online extremism, including modest protests and the “humiliation of national dignity.” It carries a sentence of up to 5 years in prison. The law also lets Russian telcos and ISPs store detailed communication records and a history of everything you’ve done online for 6 months and metadata for up to 3 years.
3. Sovereign Internet Law (2019)
The Sovereign Internet Law is Russia’s biggest step towards online censorship. It aims to establish Russia’s own local alternative to the global internet, letting the country switch off access to the global internet during “emergencies.”
The Russian government has also developed its own version of Wikipedia, Ruwiki, in a bid to share”‘reliable” information. It allows the state to spread information in a way that’s Kremlin-compliant.
Offers a network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, including several locations near Russia like Latvia, Romania, and others
Has AES 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and other tools to keep you safe online
Uses advanced obfuscation to bypass detection mechanisms and ensure unrestricted internet access
Provides 24/7 live chat and other support options
Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
ExpressVPN’s reliable obfuscation makes it the best VPN for Russia. It effectively masks your VPN traffic as regular traffic, ensuring you can get around anti-VPN measures and freely surf the web. Plus, it has a strict no-logs policy to ensure your activity is never stored, and it includes the following features for enhanced protection:
AES 256-bit encryption — makes it impossible for anyone to see what you’re doing online.
Threat Manager — blocks malicious websites and trackers while surfing the web.
Ad blocker — stops ads from loading, leading to faster and smoother browsing.
TrustedServer Technology — RAM-based servers that are wiped with every reboot and never store any browsing data.
Network Lock kill switch — stops your internet if the VPN is unstable to ensure you remain anonymous.
Leak protection — keeps you from leaking your IP address and other sensitive information online.
I was impressed with ExpressVPN’s variety of security features, and they all performed well. When I tested its leak protection, ExpressVPN never revealed my actual IP address online, keeping me completely anonymous while surfing the web.
ExperssVPN always keeps your real information hidden
If you ever need assistance, ExpressVPN provides top-quality customer support. It has 24/7 live chat, a detailed knowledge base, and other useful support channels that let you get help whenever you need it.
While it’s not the cheapest VPN for Russia, you can get ExpressVPN for as low as $6.67/month with the 1-year + 3 months plan. Also, the app has a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you lots of time to try it without risk. If you’re unsatisfied, you can contact support and ask for a full refund during this window.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, Chromecast, Roku, Android TVs, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
Has a virtual location within Russia that provides a local IP address
Offers AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and other tools to enhance security
Provides servers across 100 countries, including many options near Russia such as Moldova and Romania
Secures up to 7 devices simultaneously
Includes a 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost is the only VPN on this list that lets you get a Russian IP address. It doesn’t have a physical server in the country, but it provides a virtual location you can connect to for a local IP address. This ensures you can access Russian websites like Start.ru without issues while keeping yourself protected.
You can get a Russian IP address with CyberGhost
Of course, CyberGhost also guarantees online security. It provides the following to ensure you stay safe and anonymous while in Russia:
AES 256-bit encryption — secures your connection against prying eyes trying to spy on your activity.
No-logs policy — ensures no logs of your browsing activity are stored on CyberGhost servers.
NoSpy servers — privately owned servers in Romania with a much lower risk of tampering.
Leak protection — keeps you from leaking sensitive information like your IP address online.
Kill switch — stops your internet if the VPN is unstable, keeping you anonymous.
The only downside to CyberGhost is that it doesn’t have obfuscation, meaning it’s harder for the app to bypass VPN blocks. However, trying different servers and protocols could fix the issue if you’re unable to access the web with CyberGhost.
You can use CyberGhost on up to 7 devices at once. Plus, the app works on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, meaning it’s easy to secure all your devices at once with it.
CyberGhost costs just $2.03/month with the 2-year + 4 months plan, making it a great value. It also has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee for long-term plans, giving you a long time to test it risk-free.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
Has one of the largest server networks available, with 35,000+ options in 91 countries, including Romania and Latvia which are near Russia
Uses AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, a no-logs policy, and more for safety and privacy
Allows up unlimited simultaneous connections
Provides 24/7 live chat and other useful support channels
Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
PIA’s enormous network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries makes it a solid option for Russia. This extensive network ensures you can easily find an uncrowded server near Russia that’ll provide fast connection speeds for lag-free browsing, streaming, and downloading.
You’ll get good security with PIA. The app lets you choose between AES 128-bit and 256-bit encryption, with 128-bit being faster and 256-bit being safer. Plus, it has other helpful features to help you stay protected in Russia, like the following:
No-logs policy — never keeps logs of any browsing activity on its servers.
Kill switch — disconnects your internet if the VPN connection drops to ensure you stay anonymous.
Obfuscation — masks VPN traffic as regular traffic to avoid VPN blockers.
MACE — blocks ads, trackers, and malware for smoother and safer web browsing.
One issue with PIA is that it’s headquartered in the US, putting it in the 5 Eyes Alliance’s jurisdiction. However, PIA has a strict no-logs policy that’s been independently audited by Deloitte, ensuring none of your browsing data is stored on PIA servers.
At just $2.03/month with the 2-year + 4 months plan, PIA delivers good value for money. The app also supports cryptocurrency payments, ensuring you can pay for it in Russia without issues. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee that lets you try PIA risk-free.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
3 Easy Steps: How to Use a VPN in Russia
Get a VPN. Subscribe to a top premium VPN and install it on your device. I advise getting ExpressVPN, as it offers unbreakable encryption, obfuscation, and many other security features.
Enable essential safety features. Open your VPN’s settings menu and ensure important features like the kill switch and leak protection are enabled.
Connect to a server. Connect to a server in a country near Russia to get fast connection speeds and access the internet without restrictions.
3 Easy Steps: How to Get a Russian IP Address
Get a VPN with Russian servers. Subscribe to a VPN that offers servers in Russia. While most providers don’t provide them because of data-collection requirements, CyberGhost still has a virtual location in Russia.
Connect to the Russian server. Access the server browser and connect to the server in Russia.
Surf the web with a Russian IP. You’ll have a Russian IP address after connecting, meaning you can safely access local Russian websites.
How to Pay for a VPN in Russia
Since Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal are not available in Russia, you can use the following methods to pay for a VPN in Russia:
Cryptocurrency — ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and PIA
UnionPay — ExpressVPN and CyberGhost
WebMoney — ExpressVPN
How to Download a VPN in Russia
You may be unable to access a VPN website in Russia due to censorship, thus stopping you from installing one on your devices. However, the following solutions will help you get a VPN in Russia:
Download Brave browser. Once open, click the three lines at the top-right to open a dropdown menu and click on “Open a new private window with Tor.” This lets you access the VPN’s website through the Tor network.
Get help from outside Russia. Contact a friend who lives elsewhere to subscribe to a VPN and provide you with a direct download link. You can also contact your VPN provider and ask for a download link. When I contacted ExpressVPN’s support team, they responded with a download link in just a few minutes.
How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Russia
I used the following criteria to pick the best overall VPNs that you can use in Russia:
Works in Russia — I picked VPNs that work reliably in Russia by using obfuscation or other advanced methods.
Servers near Russia — I chose VPNs with servers near Russia to ensure you can find an uncrowded server near Russia for fast speeds.
Advanced security and privacy — I selected VPNs with unbreakable AES 256-bit encryption, strict no-logs policies, and more to ensure you stay protected and anonymous in Russia.
Multiple payment methods — I found VPNs that support payment methods like cryptocurrencies, meaning you can easily subscribe to them while in Russia.
Responsive support — I selected VPNs offering helpful 24/7 live chat and other support channels you can use to get help whenever needed.
Money-back guarantee — I only chose VPNs with money-back guarantees, meaning you can try any of them without risk.
FAQs: VPNs and Russia
Which VPNs have servers in Russia?
CyberGhost has a virtual Russian server location that provides a Russian IP address, and it’s hosted in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction outside Russia. However, most VPN providers no longer have servers within the country because Russian agencies require VPN providers to connect their systems to its website blocklist.
Is it legal to use a VPN in Russia?
It depends. While it’s generally legal to use any of the top Russian VPNs to secure yourself while surfing the internet, it’s illegal to access websites that the government has blocked. These laws change frequently, so I suggest keeping an eye on them and avoiding using a VPN for unlawful activity.
Which VPN protocol should I use in Russia?
OpenVPN is the best VPN protocol for Russia, as it’s open-source and doesn’t have known vulnerabilities. Plus, all the best VPNs for Russia include this protocol. However, using a stealth protocol can be better in some cases if your VPN offers it.
My VPN is not working in Russia — how can I fix it?
While the best VPNs for Russia should usually work without issues, the following solutions may help resolve problems:
Switch servers. Trying a different server in a nearby location could fix the issue.
Use obfuscation. Enable obfuscation from your VPN’s settings and choose a server that supports this feature.
Change your protocol. Trying a different protocol like Wireguard could be a potential fix.
Use a wired connection. Wired connections are more stable and may fix the problem.
Check your internet. Ensure you’re connected to the internet before trying to enable a VPN.
Contact support. Contact your VPN’s support team for help if the above steps fail.
Can I download a VPN in Russia?
Yes, you can download a VPN in Russia if you can access the website. However, some providers’ websites are banned, in which case the following solutions could help:
Get an alternative URL. Contact your VPN provider via email and request an alternative download link.
Use the Tor network. Access the Tor network via the Brave or Tor browsers to open restricted VPN websites.
What sites and apps are blocked in Russia?
While the best VPNs for Russia can easily access them, the following websites and platforms are banned in Russia:
Social Media
Facebook
X
(formerly Twitter)
Instagram
LinkedIn
TikTok
News
Independent Russian outlets
Voice of America
Deutsche Welle
Amnesty International
BBC
Archiving Sites
archive.org
archive.ec
archive.is
…and more
Others
The Tor Project
LGBTQ sites
Dailymotion
Cryptocurrency exchanges
…and more
Note that my team and I don’t condone using a VPN for illegal activity. Please do your research and make sure you aren’t accidentally accessing a site you’re not allowed to open.
How can I watch Netflix in Russia?
Netflix doesn’t work in Russia, but the best VPNs work with Netflix libraries across the world without issues. Of course, using a VPN in this manner goes against Netflix’s terms of service and may be considered copyright infringement, so you should double-check before using a VPN this way.
How can I stay anonymous online in Russia?
Connecting to a reliable VPN is the best way to stay anonymous online in Russia. However, the following steps can also help you protect your privacy:
Use Tor. Connecting to the Tor network keeps your IP address hidden. However, it’ll slow down your connection, meaning it’s best for low-bandwidth activities.
Avoid using your name. Don’t use your official name when posting content online.
Check app permissions. Ensure only trusted apps have access to sensitive permissions, like your location, microphone, camera, photos, and more.
Can I use a free VPN in Russia?
You can, but it’s best to use a top premium VPN. Free VPNs have poor security and small server networks, which is why they aren’t effective in restrictive regions like Russia.
Some good free VPNs deliver reliable protection and performance, but the best and safest way to use the internet in Russia is with a premium VPN.
Use a Reliable VPN to Surf the Web Safely in Russia
Since the country requires VPN providers to block specific sites and share data with Roskomnadzor, many VPNs have withdrawn their services from Russia. However, some top VPNs still work in Russia and keep you secure while ensuring unrestricted internet access.
The VPNs listed above ensure security in Russia and let you surf the web without issues. They offer impenetrable encryption, no-logs policies, and many extra security features to protect your online activity. Most also offer obfuscation to mask your VPN traffic as regular traffic and get around VPN blockers.
Of my top choices, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Russia in 2024. Its advanced obfuscation, RAM-based servers, no-logs policy, and various safety features make it the #1 option. Plus, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free. The app’s 30-day money-back guarantee lets you ask for a full refund if you’re unsatisfied with its performance.
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research, and also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company. Learn more
Osama Zahid is a Writer at WizCase.
His forte is antivirus software, and he has written numerous reviews, comparisons, and guides on various cybersecurity products during his time at WizCase. Always on top of the latest software developments, he frequently runs tests to ensure that the information he presents is accurate and up-to-date.
Prior to joining WizCase, Osama spent close to a decade writing about a wide range of topics, including AI, cybersecurity, computer hardware, and more.
When he isn't sharing his expertise through his writing, he likes to polish his coding skills, head out for late night runs, or immerse himself in his favorite games.
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