Best VPNs for using Discord securely and bypassing bans

Although there are plenty of VPNs that work with Discord, there are some that work better than others. Here, we take a look at the best VPNs for using Discord securely and reliably.

Unlike some popular messaging platforms, Discord doesn’t secure communication between users with end-to-end encryption (E2EE). Instead, it relies on Transport Layer Security (TLS) to encrypt text and images in transit. 

Requests for E2EE by Discord users have been gently rebuffed, with company representatives claiming such measures would give free reign to bad people doing bad things, and neuter its ability to help enforce the law.  Although E2EE is unlikely to make an appearance anytime soon, the best VPNs can help with using Discord more securely – whether that’s by hiding users’ real location or bypassing online blocks in restrictive countries. 

A virtual private network (VPN) allows users to connect to any server in the VPN provider’s network – wherever that may be. Doing so allows the users’ device to assume the IP address of that server, and secures all traffic flowing to and from it. This masks both where the user is and what they’re doing online. 

We’ll examine individual VPN providers in more detail later. For now, here’s a summary of our top choice VPNs for Discord.

Best VPNs for using Discord securely:

1. NordVPN: Our recommended VPN for using Discord securely. Fast, RAM-only servers in 61+ countries and robust security. Provides one-click access to the Tor network and effective obfuscation. Plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for using Discord securely. RAM-only servers in 100+ countries and all apps have a full GUI. Plans include unlimited device connections and access to static and rotating IP addresses.
3. ExpressVPN: Can bypass Discord blocks in China and the UAE. Has an app for routers and an Onion site on the Tor network. Provides very fast connection speeds and RAM-only servers in 105+ countries. 
4. Mullvad: Robust security and RAM-only servers in 40+ countries. Extremely fast connection speeds and can help users in China, Qatar, and the UAE access Discord. Allows port forwarding for improved torrenting.
5. Proton VPN: Works well with VoIP services like Discord and has open-source apps with split tunneling. Speedy servers are available in 72+ countries and port forwarding is allowed. Works with many popular streaming platforms. 
6. PrivateVPN: Enables access to Discord in China and the Gulf states, while providing secure connections. Servers are available in 63+ countries and the provider is a good option for both streaming and torrenting. 
7. CyberGhost: Extensive network of RAM-only servers, with a presence in 91+ countries. Easily fast enough for interruption-free Discord video and VoIP calls. Streaming servers are optimized for individual platforms.

Summary Table

The VPN market is highly competitive. Some companies are willing to say almost anything to snag new customers. To find out what providers can really do, we objectively test them against a specific list of criteria. These are summarized below and expanded upon later in the article when we discuss our testing methodology in more detail.

• Large server network
• Fast connection speeds
• Strong privacy and security features
• Works with routers
• User-friendly apps 
• Helpful customer support

To be included as one of our top three providers, we additionally require VPNs to have a RAM-only server network, independently audited software and infrastructure, effective obfuscation, and a location beyond the reach of cross-border spying alliances. 

Best VPNs for using Discord securely

Now let’s explore each of our recommended providers in greater detail:

NordVPN has thousands of RAM-only servers spread across 61+ countries. These provide secure connections that are easily fast enough for Discord video and VoIP calls. 

Features of the service include one-click access to the Tor network, MultiHop servers, and a connection protocol – NordLynx – that doesn’t require user-data to be stored on the company’s servers. Users in restrictive countries like China and the UAE can access Discord by connecting via NordVPN’s obfuscated servers. 

Apps are straightforward to use and available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. They come with strong encryption, built-in leak protection, a kill switch, split tunneling and an ad, tracker, and malware-blocker. 

Connections can be configured on a range of Asus routers, as well as those made by EdgeRouter and Ubiquiti, GL.iNet, Netduma, Netgear, MikroTik, and Peplink/Pepwave. This lets Discord users include games consoles in the VPN tunnel. 

NordVPN is a solid choice for streaming, and able to access a host of Netflix libraries as well as content from Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Its SmartPlay feature provides DNS proxy servers that VPN-incompatible devices can use to access geo-restricted content.

The company made its entire server network RAM-only following a minor attack on a Finnish third-party data center in 2018. This also prompted it to introduce a suite of other security measures, including colocated servers and a bug bounty program. The company has since had multiple audits of its software and infrastructure, which have verified its no-logs policy. 

BEST VPN FOR USING DISCORD SECURELY: NordVPN provides Discord users with multiple IP address options and a way of bypassing blocks on the platforms. It’s very fast and works well with streaming services. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full NordVPN review.

Surfshark is a reasonably priced provider with much to offer Discord users. It has IP addresses available in 100+ countries, the ability to evade blocks in countries like China and the UAE, and strong encryption as standard.

Subscribers can access static IP addresses in six countries, and connect as many devices as they want simultaneously. For additional security, the company’s Nexus technology can rotate users’ IP addresses in-session and allows them to choose entry and exit servers for MultiHop connections. 

Surfshark VPN apps all have a full GUI, built-in leak protection, split tunneling, and a kill switch. They’re available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. The service is compatible with modern Asus routers and those running DD-WRT and Tomato firmware. Step-by-step configuration instructions are available on Surfshark’s website.

The provider is able to access all of the most popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and HBO Max. Connection speeds are fast enough for streaming video in 4K. Those with games consoles can use Surfshark’s smart DNS service to access geo-restricted content. 

Surfshark merged with Nord Security – NordVPN’s parent company – in 2022, though it claims that it will continue to operate autonomously. Since the merger, Surfshark has had its no-logs policy verified by Deloitte. 

GOOD VALUE: Surfshark makes it easy to securely use Discord in a long list of countries. Budget-friendly VPN that is fast enough for smooth video and VoIP calls and great for streaming. Plans include unlimited device connections and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is a highly secure service that can provide Discord users with alternative IP addresses in 105+ countries, and simplified router configuration via custom firmware. 

Other features include Trusted Server Technology that involves the reinstallation of every server on the provider’s network, and a proprietary connection protocol that contributes to impressively fast connection speeds.

Obfuscation is enabled by default, which makes it easy for Discord users in China and the UAE to bypass restrictions. Near anonymous sign-up is possible thanks to an ExpressVPN Onion site on the Tor network. 

The service works with streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. Its MediaStreamer tool helps games consoles access content by providing them with DNS proxy servers that they can use to change their virtual location. 

Apps come with strong encryption, built-in leak protection, a kill switch, and a tracker and malware blocker. They’re consistent across platforms and available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Nvidia Shield, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux.

ExpressVPN was acquired by Kape Technologies in 2021. Although now an established cybersecurity firm, Kape had previously – under the name Crossrider – specialized in the creation of software designed to inject adverts into users’ browsers. 

In 2022, ExpressVPN underwent 12 third-party audits that examined every facet of its software and infrastructure. These audits verified the company’s ongoing no-logs policy.

TRUSTED SERVERS: Provides secure Discord connections and RAM-only servers in 105+ countries. Custom firmware makes it easy to protect games consoles and obfuscation is enabled by default. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

Mullvad is a great option for privacy-focused Discord users who want the fastest speeds and a way to circumvent country-specific VPN blocks. 

It has a strict no-logs policy that’s pleasingly transparent, and users can pay for the service using cash or cryptocurrency. The company has undertaken multiple third-party audits of its apps and infrastructure and has never experienced a data breach.

IP addresses are available in 43+ countries and the provider has RAM-only servers in 39 of these. Connection speeds are excellent, with Discord users highly unlikely to notice any drop in speed when using the service.

Port forwarding is allowed, which makes it possible to connect to more peers in a torrent swarm and seed more efficiently. Note, however, that Mullvad is unable to access popular streaming platforms – look to one of our other providers if this is problematic. 

Apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. These come with a built-in kill switch, strong encryption, and access to MultiHop servers. Router configuration is possible, with Mullvad’s website providing step-by-step guides for routers running Asuswrt-Merlin, DD-WRT, and OpenWRT. 

Mullvad can help Discord users trying to connect where the service is blocked or banned by bridging data through a Shadowsocks proxy. 

TRANSPARENT PROVIDER: IP addresses are available in 43+ countries and it provides impressively fast connection speeds for seamless Discord video calls. Access in China and the UAE is possible. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Mullvad.

Proton VPN makes it easy for Discord users to hide their IP address and establish secure connections when messaging. 

It has servers in 71+ countries, 68 of which additionally contain Secure Core servers. These route traffic through high security data centers in Switzerland, Iceland, and Sweden that are owned and operated by Proton VPN. 

The service is a good option for both torrenting and streaming. It allows port forwarding and works well with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Connection speeds are very fast, so streaming in 4K – or making Discord video calls – won’t be a problem. 

Apps are all open-source, and come equipped with built-in leak protection, a kill switch, strong encryption, split tunneling, and an ad-blocker. They’re available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and FireTV. Connections can be configured on routers running AsusWRT, DD-WRT, OpenWRT, or FreshTomato firmware.

Proton VPN has a transparent and thorough no-logs policy that has been verified through multiple audits of its software and infrastructure. The company publishes any legal requests for customer data on its website. Its inability to comply with these requests serves as a testament to its no-logs claims. 

STRONG ON PRIVACY: Provides high security connections in 68+ countries. Router configuration enables protection for Discord users’ games consoles. Connections are fast and apps open-source. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Proton VPN.

PrivateVPN allows Discord users to adjust the level of encryption used on their data, while its stealth mode enables them to connect in countries where Discord is restricted or banned.

Other features include app-specific and system-wide kill switches, access to a SOCKS5 and HTTP Proxy, protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks, and a kill switch. Port forwarding is permitted, which makes for more efficient torrenting.

PrivateVPN is a good choice for streaming, and is able to consistently access Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, CBS, and BBC iPlayer. It’s not the fastest provider available, but is good enough for HD streaming or VoIP Discord calls. 

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV. Router configuration is possible, with PrivateVPN’s customer support team able to provide remote control assistance. Compatible routers include those running AsusWRT, Tomato, or DD-WRT firmware. 

PrivateVPN has never had a data breach and adheres to a strict no-logs policy – though this has yet to be independently audited. As of 2022, the company is no longer independent, having been acquired by the UK-based Miss Group web-hosting business.

STEALTH MODE: Allows Discord users to choose IP addresses from 63+ countries and bypass any blocks they encounter. It's compatible with routers and support staff can help with configuration. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

CyberGhost provides notably fast connections and a vast network of 10,000 RAM-only servers. Discord users can select IP addresses from 100+ countries and enjoy smooth video and VoIP calls. 

Servers are helpfully labeled for streaming, torrenting, and gaming; with the streaming servers further optimized for individual streaming platforms. Better still, the Smart Rules tool enables users to automatically connect their favorite streaming apps to the appropriate servers. The only downside is that Smart Rules is only available for Windows devices.

Features shared by all apps include protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks; and a built-in ad and malware blocker. Apps are available for all major platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux. The service is compatible with routers running DD-WRT, Tomato, and Asuswrt-Merlin firmware. CyberGhost provides step-by-step online instructions for configuring connections. 

Although CyberGhost’s no-logs policy has been verified by independent auditors, it does collect some non-personally identifiable data via its website. This is shared with CyberGhost’s parent company, Kape Technologies. 

To maximize their security, users who are willing to pay a little extra can access CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers. These are housed in Romanian data centers owned and operated by CyberGhost, and provide additional bandwidth, a dedicated uplink, and even faster speeds. As such, it's another great VPN for Discord, and other blocked VoIP platforms.

FAST CONNECTIONS: CyberGhost is fast enough for using Discord without issue and is available in 100+ countries. It has servers optimized for individual streaming platforms and an audited no-logs policy. Plans come with a 45-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

Methodology for choosing the best VPNs for using Discord securely

Our recommended VPN providers are carefully selected using our testing methodology and important considerations for Discord users to secure their connections. These are discussed below. 

• Large server network: We look for VPNs that have servers in all the countries Discord users are likely to connect from. This ensures users can easily find nearby servers as well as giving them the greatest opportunities for accessing additional content libraries from streaming platforms. 
• Fast connection speeds: Discord users who routinely make international VoIP or video calls should choose a VPN with fast connection speeds. Too slow and they risk jittery calls with lag and disconnections. We regularly test VPN providers to ascertain which have the fastest servers and which are too slow to warrant consideration.
• Strong privacy and security features: For all its benefits, Discord has attracted many ne'er do wells hoping to exploit unsuspecting users. VPNs can help protect Discord users by offering strong encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. Some of the better providers also offer obfuscation, MultiHop servers, split tunneling, and port forwarding. This will also help in areas subject to a higher level of internet censorship.
• Works with routers: Configuring a VPN connection on a router allows Discord users to protect devices like games consoles, which don’t support VPN software natively. We look for providers that are compatible with a good range of router firmware and provide easy-to-follow configuration instructions.
• User-friendly apps: The best VPN apps are easy to use – even for those with little or no VPN experience. This requires a GUI that can be navigated intuitively and consistently across platforms. As well as catering for novices, apps should provide enough functionality to satisfy those with more VPN experience who want to tweak the settings. 
• Helpful customer support: Discord users trying to connect in restrictive countries, or configure a connection on their router, may need some additional assistance from the VPN provider. We look for VPNs with a responsive and knowledgeable customer support team – ideally available via 24/7 live chat and email. 

Bonus points

For any Discord VPNs to make it to one of our top three positions, VPN companies must additionally offer the following features:

• Access to China: China has invested significant resources in thwarting citizens' attempts to access VPNs. Its advanced VPN-blocking technology prevents all but a handful of providers from working in the country. Those that can penetrate its defenses are highly valued by netizens in China and countries like Iran, Egypt, and Russia.
• Diskless servers: To enhance their network security, some VPN providers now only use RAM-only servers. Because these operate on volatile memory, all stored data gets automatically erased when the servers are powered off or rebooted. This makes them less appealing to hackers or government agencies seeking to access VPN-users’ sensitive information. 
• Incorporation outside the scope of intelligence alliances: Several countries have formalized intelligence-sharing agreements. Some of the more well-known alliances include the Five Eyes, SIGINT Seniors Europe, and Maximator. These alliances enable member countries to seek surveillance support from their allies, circumventing domestic laws that restrict direct spying on their own populace. To distance themselves from these alliances, some VPNs choose to incorporate their companies in countries – such as Panama or the British Virgin Islands – that have no affiliation with recognized intelligence alliances. 
• Audited software and infrastructure: VPN providers that claim to have a strict "zero logs" policy, but are then found to retain data logs and share them with law enforcement authorities, have negatively impacted the VPN industry as a whole. To help restore consumer confidence, better providers enlist third-party auditors to thoroughly assess their software and infrastructure. These audits verify that customer data is not being stored and also aid in detecting any potential vulnerabilities that may pose security risks. 

How do I securely use a VPN with Discord?

It’s easy to use Discord more securely with a VPN. Just follow these instructions: 

1. Choose a VPN with a large server network and robust security and privacy. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Sign up for a subscription – longer terms are almost always better value. 
3. Download, and install, the relevant app for your device.
4. Restart the device once installation is complete. 
5. Open the newly installed app and choose a server from the list of available servers. The fastest connections are normally from servers nearest your actual location.
6. Click the “connect” button.
7. Wait until the app tells you that a connection has been established.
8. Open Discord and use it as normal, but with encrypted internet traffic and a different IP address. 

Can I use a free VPN with Discord?

You can, but it’s unlikely to be a satisfactory experience. Free VPNs are often sluggish, with too many users competing for too few servers. Instant messaging won’t be a problem, but VoIP and video calls may be low quality or fail completely. 

Free VPNs leave a lot to be desired in terms of privacy and security. They routinely log user activity and use trackers to facilitate data collection. This data can subsequently be sold to advertisers or data brokers. Some free VPNs leak users' IP addresses or fail to encrypt data – usually those that are actually proxy servers rather than true VPNs. 

We'd recommend sticking with any of the premium Discord VPNs we've listed above. Each offers impressive speeds, and won't leak your real IP address in the process of accessing your favorite Discord server.  

Use Discord at work or in school

If your employer or school has blocked Discord then you will need to use a VPN to regain access. A VPN encrypts your connection and allows you to spoof your IP address outside of the local network. This completely bypasses any of the restrictions placed on the internet by your workplace. 

When you use a VPN you can access Discord and use it as if you were back home. The same is true of any other service that is blocked on the local WiFi network, including streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, game servers, social media sites, or anything else that interests you.

Thanks to the encryption provided by the VPN, you will be able to use Discord without your employer finding out. This allows you to use any blocked internet service with complete privacy, That said, you should still be careful when using a VPN. Bypassing company rules to access content could lead to repercussions, so it is better only to access this kind of content on your own devices, and during legitimate downtime such as a lunch break.

The VPNs for Discord in this guide provide watertight privacy for your connection, but they can't necessarily stop your boss from walking up behind you when you are in the middle of chatting on the Discord app, using Midjourney, watching a video, or playing a game. So be extremely careful not to flout the rules too openly.

You always use a VPN at your own risk, so consider the consequences and proceed with caution.

Best VPNs for using Discord securely – FAQs

Where is Discord banned?

Discord is banned in countries like North Korea and mainland China, where the free sharing of ideas is perceived as a threat. In other countries – like the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia – VoIP-capable services such as Discord are blocked or otherwise restricted. Their ability to make free internet calls reduces revenue for telecoms companies and the state coffers. Using a good quality VPN helps users navigate most blocks.

Why isn’t Discord working with my VPN?

Try switching VPN servers to see if that helps. The IP addresses associated with some VPN servers may have been blacklisted by Discord if previous users have been banned while connected to them. This is more likely with free VPNs that have small server networks.

What data does Discord collect about me?

Discord’s privacy policy states that it collects a fair amount of user data. This includes IP addresses, operating system information, browser information, and information about device settings like microphone and cameras. The company also collects information about how users interact with its platforms. It says it “generally” does not store the contents of video or voice calls or channels.

Which messaging apps have end-to-end encryption?

The best of the lot is Signal, which secures voice and video calls – as well as messages – with E2EE. It’s open-source, which allows anyone to examine its code. Unlike some mainstream messaging apps, it doesn’t collect user data. 

Telegram is another popular messaging app with E2EE available. Users can choose which conversations they want to use it with by tapping “Start Secret Chat” on the relevant contact’s profile. 

WhatsApp enables E2EE for its messages and calls by default, though it has courted controversy with changes to its privacy policy. In 2023, it was found to have violated the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and fined $5.95m.

Can I bypass a Discord ban using a VPN?

Users who’ve been banned from a Discord server can change their IP address using a VPN, set up a new account, and rejoin – though you may need a new phone number to do this. Also, note that such circumvention techniques violate Discord’s Terms of Service. If reported, this could result in a permanent ban from Discord.