5 Best VPNs for Iran in 2023 for Security, Streaming, and Speed

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.

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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.

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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

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Tested October 2023

Available on:

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www.ExpressVPN.com

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 105 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.

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2. CyberGhost — Global Network With Servers in Iran to Access Local and International Content

Available on:

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www.cyberghostvpn.com

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 100 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 $2.11/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.

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3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — High Server Speeds for Smooth Streaming in Iran and Worldwide

Available on:

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www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

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 $2.11/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.

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4. IPVanish — Intuitive Apps to Easily Browse International and Iranian Websites Using a VPN

Available on:

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Try IPVanish VPN >

www.IPVanishVPN.com

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 $2.99/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.

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5. PrivateVPN — Allows P2P Activity on All Servers for Quick Torrenting

Available on:

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Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

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).

Even though its main office is in Sweden, a member of the 14 Eyes Alliance, there might be apprehensions among users regarding the VPN's privacy stance. Yet, the VPN adheres to a stringent no-logs policy, guaranteeing that users' genuine IP addresses and online behaviors aren't recorded or observed.

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.

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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.

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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).

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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

Rank

Provider

Our Score

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1

9.9 /10

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

Save 84%!

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3

9.5 /10

Save 82%!

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4

9.4 /10

Save 76%!

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5

9.3 /10

Save 85%!

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