Why is a VPN worth it in Switzerland?
Anonymity & IP protection
Encrypts all of your internet traffic and hides your real IP address from internet providers, ad networks and hackers.
Streaming without borders
Unlocks streaming libraries around the world (e.g. US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, SRF while abroad), with no geo-blocks in the way.
Security on public Wi-Fi
Keeps bank details, passwords and messages safe when you are on public networks (hotspots, airports, cafés).
Swiss server locations
Connect to local Swiss servers and browse at top speed with full encryption.
The 5 best VPN providers in Switzerland at a glance
Ratings, features and prices for our top VPN picks, side by side:
In-depth reviews of the best VPN providers
Trustpilot: 4.2 / 530-day money-back guaranteefrom 2,19 € / month
NordVPN is the world's best-known VPN provider and a well-rounded choice if you want top security, high speeds and dependable access to geo-blocked content.
With over 5,500 servers in more than 60 countries, it has the infrastructure for 4K streaming, P2P downloads and protected browsing.
Why we like NordVPN
- Military-grade encryption (AES-256) & Double VPN
- Independently audited no-logs policy for genuine confidentiality
- Built-in threat protection that blocks ads & malware
- Works very well with Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Disney+
- Intuitive apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and browsers
Possible drawbacks
- The rolling monthly plan is fairly pricey
- No permanent free version
Verdict: NordVPN delivers across the board. The first choice if you refuse to compromise on security or speed.
See NordVPN plans →Trustpilot: 4.2 / 530-day money-back guaranteefrom 2,19 € / month
Surfshark is ideal for families and anyone with lots of devices. Its big trump card: a single plan allows unlimited simultaneous connections. We use Surfshark ourselves day to day and are thoroughly impressed by how reliable it is.
Why we like Surfshark
- Protects an unlimited number of devices at once
- Excellent value on long-term plans
- The CleanWeb feature blocks ads, trackers and malware
- Camouflage mode even hides the fact that you are using a VPN
- Very user-friendly, modern apps
Possible drawbacks
- Slightly smaller server network than CyberGhost
- Speed varies on very distant servers
Verdict: Surfshark is the best all-round package if you watch the price and want to cover the whole household.
Get the Surfshark deal →Swiss headquarters30-day money-back guaranteefrom 4,49 € / month
ProtonVPN was created by CERN scientists and is headquartered right in Geneva. Your data therefore falls under strict Swiss data protection law and is shielded from access by foreign authorities.
Especially appealing: ProtonVPN is one of very few providers with a permanently free version and no data cap.
Why we like ProtonVPN
- Based in Switzerland, with full Swiss data protection
- Strict no-logs policy & open-source apps
- Secure Core architecture routes traffic through highly secure Swiss servers
- Permanently free basic version with no bandwidth limit
- Up to 10 simultaneous connections on the premium plan
Possible drawbacks
- Premium plans cost a little more than average
- Speed is limited on the free version
Verdict: If you want genuine Swiss privacy, transparency and maximum anonymity, ProtonVPN is the right fit.
Discover ProtonVPN →Trustpilot: 4.3 / 530-day money-back guaranteefrom 7,74 € / month
ExpressVPN is regarded across the industry as the benchmark for very high speed and uncompromising reliability. Its in-house Lightway protocol delivers lightning-fast server connections and minimal latency.
Why we like ExpressVPN
- Outstanding speed thanks to the modern Lightway protocol
- Reliably unlocks streaming services worldwide
- Very easy to set up on routers, smart TVs & consoles
- Servers in 94 countries for global coverage
Possible drawbacks
- Highest price in our test field
- Maximum of 5 simultaneous connections per account
Verdict: If you want uncompromising speed for 4K streaming and top reliability, ExpressVPN is worth every franc.
Try ExpressVPN →Trustpilot: 4.2 / 545-day money-back guaranteefrom 2,19 € / month
CyberGhost shines above all with its huge choice of servers (over 9,000) and preconfigured profiles built for streaming platforms and torrent downloads.
Why we like CyberGhost
- Huge network with over 9,000 servers in 90 countries
- Optimised servers for Netflix, BBC, YouTube and more
- Very long trial period: 45-day money-back guarantee
- Low prices on multi-year plans
Possible drawbacks
- Monthly plan is relatively expensive
- Fewer advanced options for IT pros
Verdict: Ideal for beginners and film fans who want to reach specialised streaming servers in one click.
View CyberGhost options →Good to know: frequently asked questions (FAQ) about VPNs
What is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) sets up an encrypted connection between your device and one of the provider's servers. Your traffic travels through this protected tunnel, and your real IP address is replaced by that of the VPN server.
Why should I use a VPN in Switzerland?
A VPN protects your data on public Wi-Fi and hides your IP address from ad networks and third parties. It also gives you access to content that is blocked abroad, such as SRF while travelling.
How does a VPN work?
The VPN app encrypts your data before it leaves your device and sends it to the internet via one of the provider's servers. Websites and services see only that server's IP address, not your own.
Do VPNs slow down the internet connection?
A VPN can reduce speed slightly because data is encrypted and rerouted. With good providers and nearby servers, for example in Switzerland, you will barely notice it in everyday use.
Are VPNs legal in Switzerland?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in Switzerland. Illegal activity stays illegal with a VPN, of course, and the terms of use of streaming services may restrict getting around geo-blocks.
Can I use a VPN for streaming?
Yes, many VPNs open up streaming libraries in other countries. NordVPN, ExpressVPN and CyberGhost are especially well known for this, although success can vary from service to service.
Does a VPN protect against hackers?
A VPN encrypts your connection and so prevents snooping on public networks. It does not replace antivirus software, though, and it will not save you from phishing or malware that you download yourself.
Do VPN providers keep logs?
Reputable providers follow a no-logs policy and do not store their users' activity. Independent audits show how far that can be trusted, for instance those that NordVPN has carried out externally.
Conclusion & final recommendation
Which VPN suits you depends on your priorities:
- NordVPN: The best all-rounder for maximum security, top speed and worldwide streaming.
- Surfshark: The value-for-money winner, with unlimited connections for the whole family.
- ProtonVPN: The best choice for maximum privacy, with Swiss headquarters and a dependable free version.