3 Best VPNs for School That Really Work in 2023
It’s no secret that schools block their students from accessing certain websites, such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Blocks may also affect streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO.
Blocking these sites makes some sense, as focusing on your studies is important. But accessing these websites from school grounds doesn’t mean that you are slacking off.
It can be frustrating trying to use Facebook during your lunch break, only to find that your access is blocked. Or maybe you and your friends want to watch the latest episode of Stranger Things on Netflix during your free period, but keep hitting a roadblock.
There is a solution. The best way to get around school network restrictions involves using a VPN.
VPNs make it look like you’re accessing the internet from a different location. This means you can view websites that your school blocks.
In this article, we’ll tell you the 3 best VPNs to unblock your school wi-fi.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for School That Really Work
- ExpressVPN — With some of the fastest speeds around, ExpressVPN offers a fluid and seamless service.
- CyberGhost — Easy to use and an emphasis on security makes CyberGhsot a top VPN pick
- PrivateVPN — User-friendly and fuss-free, and with strong security, you can't go wrong with PrivateVPN
Why You Need a VPN for Your School
Schools are clamping down on the content students can access when they use the internet.
There can’t be anything more frustrating than taking your lunch break — or having a free period — only to find that you can’t visit your favorite websites on your phone or laptop.
It’s also possible that some websites are inadvertently blocked, even though they may help with research for assignments. YouTube, with its many educational videos, is a perfect example of a blocked website that could be useful for studies.
A VPN solves these problems by letting you change your IP address and bypass blocked content. The result enables you to enjoy access to unrestricted content without worrying about your school blocking it.
However, some schools block access to VPNs, which means you need a premium version that goes undetected. Premium VPNs regularly update their servers to get around any potential blocks from institutions such as schools.
That's Not All a VPN Can Do
VPNs do more than unblock restricted content. Some schools use an open network for wi-fi, which means you could be at risk from malicious attacks.
VPNs offer a host of security features, including encrypting traffic so that third parties can’t monitor online behavior.
The best VPNs feature built-in anti-malware and adware systems. Having these systems in places means you’re protected from cyber threats like spyware, hacking, and phishing.
Other top security features include a no-logs policy, automatic kill switch, and 256-bit encryption. These features help you experience safer web browsing and streaming.
Sometimes, internet service providers (ISPs) throttle bandwidth if they detect a heavy amount of data use, such as streaming.
As well as masking your IP address, a VPN hides your streaming habits from your ISP. This prevents throttling, ensuring that your connection speeds perform optimally.
3 Best VPNs for Unrestricted Browsing and Streaming in Schools
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another excellent option if you want to access restricted content in your school. Known for its lightning-fast speeds, you’ll have no problem watching streaming content — including YouTube videos.
A built-in killswitch, split tunneling, IPv6 leak protection, and DNS leak protections mean that Express VPN’s security is on point.
There’s also the bonus of using ExpressVPN on 5 devices simultaneously, meaning you can browse from your phone and laptop while you’re at school.
ExpressVPN features a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try the service with no commitments. Save some money when you subscribe with our coupon code.
- Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Sling TV, DAZN, BBC iPlayer, and TVPlayer.
Supports torrenting
- Yes, all servers support P2P activity.
ExpressVPN works on these devices
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Chrome, Firefox. It also offers an app for certain routers.
2. CyberGhost VPN
If your school’s wi-fi is on an open network, CyberGhost is a great option. It includes features such as DNS and IP leak protection, a strict no-log policy, 256-bit AES encryption, and an automatic kill switch.
It’s also 100% customizable so you can tailor everything to your personal VPN needs. There is an extensive list of server options that include 5,000+ servers in 90 different countries (great for enjoying region-locked apps like BBC iPlayer). You can also use up to 7 simultaneous connections at once.
We’re not surprised that CyberGhost is so popular with users.
CyberGhost offers a 45-day money-back guarantee. Save on your subscription with our coupon code.
- Dedicated streaming profile with servers optimized for: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, ulu, Comedy Central, Eurosport, ESPN, and others.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes; dedicated profile shows countries and number of users.
CyberGhost works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, Android TV, Linux, and Chrome.
3. PrivateVPN
With 6 simultaneous connections, servers in 60 countries, and support for all OS platforms, PrivateVPN is a solid choice for using a VPN to unblock school wi-fi.
Its servers are ultra-fast, meaning you can stream content on Netfilx, Hulu, HBO, and more with no problems. Security features are also top notch, with a 2048-bit encryption — the most secure of its kind.
Unlimited bandwidth and server switches, plus full support from the in-house tech team, makes PrivateVPN a popular choice with users.
There is a no-risk 30-day money-back guarantee when you sign up for PrivateVPN. Enjoy PrivateVPN with a coupon code.
PrivateVPN can unblock:
- Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes, all servers support P2P activity; list of P2P-optimized servers available through the app.
PrivateVPN works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Get Private VPN for Your School Now
Summary
By utilizing a VPN, you can bid farewell to concerns regarding browsing and streaming limitations while at school. This grants you the opportunity to enjoy access to exceptional content. However, ensure that it does not hinder your academic pursuits.
Our top pick for getting the best VPN experience while at school is ExpressVPN, thanks to its great overall performance.
Further Reading
Unblock YouTube Videos From Any Country, School, or Work [&FAST]
How to Unblock Websites at School in 2019 (#1 Is Super Fast!)
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
Kristina Perunicic is a former editor for vpnMentor. She’s a cybersecurity expert with an interest in VPNs and their importance in the digital privacy landscape.