5 Best VPNs for Iran in 2023 for Security, Streaming, and Speed
- The Best VPNs for Iran — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)
- ExpressVPN — Tough Military-Grade Encryption to Protect Your Privacy in and Outside Iran
- CyberGhost — Global Network With Servers in Iran to Access Local and International Content
- Private Internet Access (PIA) — High Server Speeds for Smooth Streaming in Iran and Worldwide
- IPVanish — Intuitive Apps to Easily Browse International and Iranian Websites Using a VPN
- PrivateVPN — Allows P2P Activity on All Servers for Quick Torrenting
- Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Iran in 3 Easy Steps
- Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Iran
- FAQs on Using a VPN for Iran
- The Bottom Line
ExpressVPN is the safest, most reliable VPN we've tested, with servers in Iran and around the world. It allows secure access to all social media platforms, and adds a much-needed layer of anonymity to your online activity.
Internet users in Iran are subject to increasing cyber threats. The country also experiences heavy internet censorship — popular websites (like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube) are filtered or blocked. Authorities collect information on internet use and monitor activities of its citizens. Moreover, you may struggle to access your international streaming subscriptions like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.
After testing 70+ providers, I found the best VPNs to protect your privacy while browsing in Iran. The services I’ve shortlisted incorporate robust online security features. They also have global servers to easily unblock content in many locations, including Iran.
My top choice for Iran is ExpressVPN. It uses high-end encryption to secure your browsing, and offers super-fast worldwide servers to bypass geo-blocks and stream buffer-free. Plus, you can even try ExpressVPN for Iran risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Important: There are restrictions on VPNs and general internet use in Iran. The team at vpnMentor doesn’t condone any illegal activity. Please inform yourself of the latest laws regarding VPN use and bans in Iran so you don’t accidentally break any rules.
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Iran in 2023
- ExpressVPN — Best VPN with top security measures for safe browsing in Iran, and a large super-fast network to stream global content buffer-free. You can test it risk-free for yourself — it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- CyberGhost — Runs Iranian (and global) servers with excellent unblocking ability to access local and international content anywhere.
- Private Internet Access — Has fast speeds for buffer-free UHD streaming, but doesn’t have the most user-friendly apps.
- IPVanish — Provides simple apps to easily connect to servers in any location, but doesn’t support cryptocurrency payments.
- PrivateVPN — Unlimited bandwidth on all servers for hassle-free P2P file sharing, but it's based in Sweden (part of the 14 Eyes Alliance).
Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free Today
The Best VPNs for Iran — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)
My list of VPNs provide you with high-end privacy in and outside of Iran — they all use 256-bit AES encryption and follow a no-logs policy. I also shortlisted them because of their large server networks and fast speeds for streaming geo-restricted content anywhere without interruptions.
The VPNs are user-friendly, support multiple connections, and come with responsive customer support, too. Plus, they all have money-back guarantees, so you can test them with confidence.
1. ExpressVPN — Tough Military-Grade Encryption to Protect Your Privacy in and Outside Iran
Try Risk-Free for 30 DaysTested July 2023
- Server speed and location: Delivers ultra-fast speeds on 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including nearby Pakistan
- Security and privacy: Military-grade encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and a no-logs policy
- Simultaneous device connections: 8
- Can stream local and global content: Netflix (US & Iran), iFilm, IRIB TV3, Disney+, RTL+, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, and more
- Compatible with: Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more
ExpressVPN’s sophisticated military-grade AES 256-bit encryption offers excellent security for your online activity. The feature scrambles communications (to and from your device), making it unreadable to third parties. Alongside this are very secure tunneling protocols, including OpenVPN and Lightway (a proprietary feature). For an additional layer of security, the VPN's automatic kill switch disconnects you from the internet in the unlikely event that the VPN fails (which can leak your IP address).
When I tested ExpressVPN for leaks, my identity remained private thanks to the IPv6/DNS/WebRTC protection. No one can see your DNS requests to monitor your internet activity, because ExpressVPN's Private DNS is managed in-house. The VPN also supports Perfect Forward Secrecy, so you get a new encryption key every time you end a session or connect to another network. This helps to protect you from hackers.
The VPN follows a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn't collect or store sensitive data that third parties can use to track you online. Also, it’s based in the British Virgin Islands, well outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances (countries working together to share internet users’ data).
I also tested ExpressVPN’s server speeds and got super-fast connections, reaching 47 Mbps on a Pakistan server. Even the servers far away in the UK barely dropped speeds. Its Smart Location feature automatically connects you to the fastest available server based on your location. Thus, you can get right to UHD streaming, gaming, or torrenting without delays. All the servers have unlimited bandwidth for downloading large files uninterrupted while torrenting.
An extensive global network of servers in 94 countries lets you easily unblock your streaming subscriptions from Iran, like your Netflix US and BBC iPlayer accounts. Though it doesn't offer Iranian servers, the ones nearby in Armenia or Israel conveniently unblock local sites. I accessed shows like Mosaferan (Passengers) on my IRIB TV 3 account, and movies on iFilm using the Pakistan servers. The VPN’s Stealth Mode makes all your traffic look like regular traffic (perfect for getting around Netflix's firewall).
Setting it up and using the apps is straightforward — a one-click connect button instantly launches protection so you can start browsing. The VPN is compatible with all major operating systems, as well as Amazon Fire and Android TV. Customer support is reachable 24/7 on live chat and email if you have any questions. There's also an extensive FAQ section on the website with plenty of troubleshooting guides.
A minor drawback of the VPN is its pricey subscriptions — the lowest plan is $6.67/month. However, there are frequent ExpressVPN discounts and giveaways. When I purchased my 12-month plan, I got 49% off plus 3 months for free. You can subscribe to the plans using many payment options, including cryptocurrency for extra privacy.
If you aren’t 100% happy with ExpressVPN, it offers a trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this policy myself by asking for a refund via the live chat. A representative sorted it out in minutes, and the money was reflected in my PayPal account within 2 days.
2. CyberGhost — Global Network With Servers in Iran to Access Local and International Content
- Server speed and location: Great speeds on 9,487 servers in 91 countries, including Iran
- Security and privacy: AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a zero-logs policy
- Simultaneous device connections: 7
- Can stream local and global content: Netflix (US & Iran), iFilm, IRIB TV3, Disney+, RTL+, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, and more
- Compatible with: Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more
With its 14 servers located in Tehran, CyberGhost offers you multiple Iranian IP addresses to access local content overseas. I tested most of CyberGhost’s Iranian servers and successfully unblocked shows like Setayesh on iFilm. It also gives you easy access to global content with servers across 91 countries. Not only that, but you can avoid tedious server searching and use the VPN's optimized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. It takes just a few clicks to unblock your accounts like HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Netflix US from Iran.
The VPN strongly safeguards your privacy using AES 256-bit encryption. Its OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols provide high-end tunneling for your traffic. Plus, a kill switch lets you safely connect to unsecured networks — it protects your identifiable details if the VPN connection accidentally drops.
CyberGhost is located in Romania, which isn’t obligated to retain users’ records. A strict no-logs policy also helps to keep your personal information private. Hence, there won’t be any data available for third parties to track you. The VPN offers DNS/IP/WebRTC leak protection too. You can even upgrade to the NoSpy servers (which only the CyberGhost team has access to) for extra security.
Most servers offer blazing-fast speeds (I got 42+ Mbps) for seamless streaming, or playing games like Fortnite lag-free. Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s servers don’t limit bandwidth, thus giving you endless UHD streaming or torrenting. It also has compression technology that reduces image sizes to help pages load faster while you’re browsing.
Installing and using CyberGhost takes less than 5 minutes, and it’s compatible with most devices, including Fire Stick. Plus, it can be manually configured on your router to protect all the devices on your home network.
Its monthly plan is slightly expensive. However, long-term options (like the 3-year plan) are super affordable and come with an extended refund period. You can get a long-term subscription for as low as $2.19/month.
Because the service has a 45-day money-back guarantee, you can try CyberGhost’s Iranian servers for free. It's easy to request a refund once you purchase a plan. I filled out the contact form on the VPN’s support page and my credit card was reimbursed within a week.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — High Server Speeds for Smooth Streaming in Iran and Worldwide
- Server speed and location: 29,650 high-speed servers in 84 countries, including nearby in the UAE
- Security and privacy: Tough encryption and OpenVPN security protocol
- Simultaneous device connections: Unlimited
- Can stream local and global content: Netflix (US & Iran), iFilm, IRIB TV3, Disney+, RTL+, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, and more
- Compatible with: Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and more
PIA’s servers deliver fast connections for streaming international and Iranian content without delays. Most of PIA’s servers I tested (including in Saudi Arabia) easily clocked 40 Mbps, and support smooth streaming and gaming without lag. The service doesn't cap bandwidth, so you get unlimited downloads, too.
Ample global servers (totaling 29,650) also make it easy to access the online services you need. While using servers in the UAE, I was able to access my favorite Iranian shows on my IRIB TV3 account and even shopped on Digikala. If you’re briefly visiting Iran, you can still bypass geo-blocks on your subscriptions back at home (like Netflix US or ESPN).
The VPN doesn't disappoint with its security measures either. There are 2 levels of encryption to secure your traffic — 128-bit (which is faster) and 256-bit encryption. I recommend 256-bit encryption for slightly more robust online protection, especially while using public WiFi. OpenVPN and WireGuard are among the protocols to choose from, plus the VPN incorporates an automatic kill switch to prevent data leaks.
A strict no-logs policy is in place alongside DNS/IP leak protection. Both measures reinforce privacy for your online activity. It also has a built-in MACE ad/malware/tracker blocking feature to filter malicious phishing sites and ads that may contain malware.
If you’re inexperienced with VPNs, the many customization settings PIA provides may seem confusing. However, you can use the preconfigured settings (without changing anything), even as a beginner. Customer reps are also on standby 24/7 to offer assistance if you need it.
You can get PIA for just $2.03/month. The most pocket-friendly plans run a year or more — the 2-year subscription is the cheapest. Its monthly plan has a higher price but doesn’t provide any additional features.
Also, the VPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, which I found reliable. My refund was processed shortly after logging a support ticket via email. It only took 4 days to get the money back in my PayPal account.
4. IPVanish — Intuitive Apps to Easily Browse International and Iranian Websites Using a VPN
- Server speed and location: Offers fast speeds on 2,200 servers in 75 countries
- Security and privacy: OpenVPN security protocol and IP/DNS leak protection
- Simultaneous device connections: Unlimited
- Can stream local and global content: Netflix (US & Iran), iFilm, IRIB TV3, Disney+, RTL+, ESPN, and more
- Compatible with: Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, routers, and more
IPVanish’s simple setup makes it straightforward to find servers or change settings. You can connect to a server directly on the “Quick Connect” screen and start browsing. The simple design appears across apps for all major devices, including Amazon Fire TV. Also, I tested PVanish’s 24/7 live chat customer support and got a response within 30 seconds (FAQ guides are also provided).
Aside from AES 256-bit encryption, the VPN uses many high-end security features to keep you safe online, including the IKEv2 protocol. OpenVPN Scramble obfuscates your VPN traffic so services with Deep Packet Inspection can’t detect it (like Netflix). Plus, there’s a kill switch to secure your traffic in case a connection fails.
This service doesn’t log sensitive records (such as your browser searches) because it follows a zero-logging policy. It owns and controls its entire server network, preventing unauthorized persons from accessing your data. DNS/IP leak protection helps protect your identity.
A network of 2,200 servers helps to unblock global content — like Netflix US or RTL+. Some servers are located in countries bordering Iran, like the UAE, Turkey, and Israel. This helps you access geo-blocked Iranian shows like Asre Jadid on your IRIB TV3 account if you aren't in the country.
I conducted tests on multiple servers and consistently achieved speeds averaging 38.55 Mbps, suitable for HD streaming. IPVanish's "Best Available City" function assists in identifying the quickest server for any given location. Additionally, IPVanish offers unrestricted bandwidth, and the SugarSync cloud storage feature ensures a secure space for storing extensive files.
A downside of the service is that it doesn’t accept cryptocurrency payments. However, it readily accepts popular payment methods like PayPal and credit cards.
Its subscriptions start from $2.49/month. You can save a lot of money on the yearly subscription compared to the monthly plan.
With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try IPVanish in Iran for free. I requested my refund via email, and my credit card was reimbursed 5 days later without any hassle.
5. PrivateVPN — Allows P2P Activity on All Servers for Quick Torrenting
- Server speed and location: 200 servers with decent speeds located in 63 countries
- Security and privacy: Strong encryption and a no-logs policy
- Simultaneous device connections: 10
- Can stream local and global content: Netflix (US & Iran), iFilm, IRIB TV3, Disney+, RTL+, Amazon Prime Video, ESPN, and more
- Compatible with: Android, Windows, iOS, Mac, routers, and more
PrivateVPN is great for torrenting as it supports P2P on all its servers. It doesn't cap bandwidth, so you can quickly download large files. Extra features like SOCKS5 proxy and port forwarding can improve download speeds. In my PrivateVPN tests it only took me 8 minutes to download a 2 GB file.
Like PIA, PrivateVPN allows you to choose between 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption (with Perfect Forward Secrecy). There are also multiple protocols (including OpenVPN) and a kill switch to enhance security. Your personally identifiable information remains private since the VPN uses DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection. On top of that, “Stealth Mode” masks your VPN traffic from detection. You can also pay for your subscription privately using cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin.
The VPN’s server network spreads across 63 countries. It was hassle-free to watch content on my BBC iPlayer and Netflix US accounts while visiting Iran. Even if you’re overseas, servers in the UAE or Turkey can still give you access to your Iranian subscriptions.
Its apps are user-friendly, even for newbies. Plus, if you have questions regarding setup or feature activation, you can contact the VPN’s knowledgeable developers via live chat (available 22 hours a day).
Despite being headquartered in Sweden, which is part of the 14 Eyes Alliance, some users may have concerns about the VPN's privacy policy. However, the VPN has a strict no-logs policy that ensures that users' actual IP addresses and online activities are not logged or monitored.
Subscriptions for PrivateVPN begin at $2/month. The price for the long-term 3-year plan (which I highly recommend) is just a fraction of the monthly subscription.
A 30-day money-back guarantee comes with all PrivateVPN plans. You can quickly get a refund if the service isn’t right for you. I got my money back by filling out the contact form on the VPN's support page. The money appeared in my bank account the same week.
Quick Guide: How to Set Up a VPN for Iran in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend using ExpressVPN because its robust security features give you the best protection while browsing in Iran. You can even test ExpressVPN risk-free since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Connect to a server. Select the country you want to access content from. For instance, if you wish to access your Netflix Iran account, choose a server in Iran or nearby.
- Start browsing. Your connection is now secure, and you can access geo-blocked content too.
Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Iran
In evaluating the top VPNs for Iran, I utilized a defined set of crucial features that ensure your safety and grant access to international content (all the VPNs I've shortlisted possess these characteristics). However, if you wish to conduct your own evaluations, you're welcome to adopt my criteria:
- Strong security and privacy features — To maintain your privacy in Iran, your VPN should have military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, secure tunelling protocols, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy.
- Global server network — An extensive international server network lets you access geo-blocked content on your streaming accounts (like Netflix US).
- Reliable local servers — Choose a VPN with servers in Iran or a nearby country (like the UAE, Turkey, or Israel) for unblocking Iranian content.
- Fast speeds — This ensures smooth streaming, quick torrenting, and lag-free gaming even when using a VPN.
- Easy to use — Pick a VPN with a simple interface and readily-available customer support so you can get started using the service right away.
- Trustworthy money-back guarantee — You should be able to try the service risk-free and get a refund if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free Today
FAQs on Using a VPN for Iran
Are VPNs legal and safe to use in Iran?
Technically VPNs are legal in Iran. You can protect your privacy with a VPN while browsing in Iran. However, you should stay up to date with current laws. You may find that only VPNs registered and approved by the government are allowed, or the use of them is limited for certain activities. So, make sure you understand the laws about using VPNs in your location to avoid trouble with the authorities.
Why do you need a VPN for Iran?
Third parties (like ISPs) tend to monitor internet users’ activities in Iran, and cyber crime is on the rise, too. To protect your privacy and stay safe online, you need a VPN with ample security features. This encrypts your traffic so that snoops and hackers can’t read your communications or see your identity. VPNs can also help with unblocking geo-blocked content on your accounts (like Netflix US) while you’re visiting Iran.
Which free VPNs are best to use in Iran?
I don’t recommend using a free VPN for Iran as they may not be safe. Most free services limit security features and therefore can’t give you good privacy. Premium VPNs with strong encryption provide reliable online protection and are very transparent when it comes to privacy. They also offer money-back guarantees, so trying them doesn’t come with any risk.
Some free VPNs even sell your data to third parties, while others force you to upgrade to their paid plans by limiting speed, bandwidth, and server selection. Most free VPNs can’t even unblock geo-restricted services, so they aren’t of much use.
How does the Iranian government censor the internet?
Information and content from some external sources (websites) are regulated or banned by the Iranian government. Plus, there’s surveillance and tracking of citizens’ activities online. However, it's still fine to access geo-blocked services or protect yourself online in Iran with a VPN (as long as it's government-approved).
The Bottom Line
By utilizing a VPN, you can securely and privately browse Iranian websites from any location worldwide. Furthermore, it enables you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content that is typically unavailable in your current location. For instance, you can stream shows on your Netflix US account even when abroad or engage in online shopping in your home country while visiting Iran. Additionally, with servers situated in or near Iran, you gain the ability to enjoy local TV services regardless of your location.
I recommend ExpressVPN because it has military-grade encryption and a vast server network worldwide to bypass geo-blocks and keep you safe. You can test ExpressVPN risk-free for Iran, because it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Iran
Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!
Your IP Address:
Your Location:
Your Internet Provider:
The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.
About the Author
Kennedy is a Cybersecurity Researcher and Writer at vpnMentor. He tests VPN software to give legit user experiences that help people make informed choices. Kennedy also puts together detailed setup and troubleshooting guides for mobile, PC, and router devices.