The ultimate guide to choosing a VPN server location
Instead of focusing on a wide range of confusing features, we will cover some crucial aspects that make a VPN a viable choice: your VPN server network and VPN server location. These two factors can impact your internet speeds, potentially unlock expanded streaming libraries, and more.
The Art of Selecting the Best VPN Server Location
Uncover the top server locations worldwide: learn which countries have robust privacy laws, strict data regulations, extensive streaming libraries, and more!
Mars Groves , Author
Steph Trejos , Editor
Last updated Aug 4, 2023
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There are a vast number of virtual private networks (VPNs) available for download on the web, so we understand that selecting between all these services can be overwhelming. After all, each VPN has its own toolbox of features that can make it dizzying to choose from, especially if you are new to using a VPN.
Instead of focusing on a wide range of confusing features, we will cover some crucial aspects that make a VPN a viable choice: your VPN server network and VPN server location. These two factors can impact your internet speeds, potentially unlock expanded streaming libraries, and more.
In this article, we will dive deeper and uncover reasons why you should change your VPN server location, the best countries to connect to with your VPN, and how data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) can affect your VPN usage.
In this article
Why change your VPN location?
It is beneficial to change your VPN location for several reasons. First, it is ideal to conceal your local IP address, provided by your internet service provider (ISP), when surfing the internet to protect your privacy and gain anonymity. So changing your VPN server location can effectively mask your local IP address.
Beyond privacy reasons, it is beneficial to change your VPN location when connecting to the internet to access websites, stream content, download torrents, or play online games.
Hide your true location for privacy
You may want to hide your true location to protect your privacy while playing online games, browsing the web, working remotely, or for other reasons. Doing so also encrypts your data, providing an added layer of security. A win-win for privacy lovers!
Faster speeds and better performance
Selecting a VPN server location that is closer to you in range increases the likelihood of better speeds and optimal performance. That is because when your server location is far away, it normally takes time for the data to travel from the server to your device. This is called ping, or latency.
Access geo-restricted content
Some regions around the world may be blocked from accessing certain websites, streaming services, and online games. By changing your VPN server location, you can bypass these network blocks by appearing as though you are in another region or country that isn’t restricted or banned from the sites you wish to access.
Bypass internet censorship and avoid surveillance
In some countries, the government imposes strict internet censorship and surveillance measures. Changing your VPN location to a country with less stringent regulations can help you bypass these restrictions and access uncensored information and resources.
Take advantage of favorable data protection and privacy laws
Each nation has its own laws and regulations regarding data protection and privacy. For instance, the European Union follows strict rules like the GDPR, which is a comprehensive set of data privacy laws that protect user data.
Conversely, countries that are part of the Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY) are renowned for their intrusive surveillance methods and data retention laws. By changing your VPN location to a country with stringent privacy laws, you can safeguard your data from third-party spies and snoopers.
The best countries to connect to with your VPN
Not all countries are equal when it comes to providing the best server locations. That is why we took the time to research and find out what companies have server locations best suited for your needs.
We’ve determined our top server locations that stand out whether you want to watch Netflix or other streaming services, download torrents, require fast speeds, or protect your privacy over an encrypted connection.
Best server location for streaming
Server locations in the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom can typically bypass geo-restrictions and unlock access to more extensive streaming libraries on Netflix and other streaming services like HBO Max and Disney+. Servers in the U.K. can also unblock content on BBC iPlayer.
However, many streaming services have taken increasing measures to detect and block VPN servers. Even if your chosen server is located within the service’s host country, you may be restricted from accessing streaming content. For instance, platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video are increasingly adept at detecting and blocking VPN servers within the U.S., so there is no guarantee that a VPN server location can unlock content even if it’s within the service’s host country. Additionally, streaming services’ regulations against accessing VPN servers are subject to change over time as well.
One potential workaround might involve using dedicated server locations to avoid detection but it’s not guaranteed. That being said, VPNs can help improve your streaming experience by providing a stable and secure connection and circumventing ISP throttling, which can significantly reduce your connection speeds while streaming.
Best server location for torrenting
The best VPN locations for torrenting are Switzerland, Romania, Iceland, and Panama due to their strong data privacy laws. These countries also abstain from participating in intelligence-sharing agreements, such as the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and Fourteen Eyes alliances. The Eyes alliances consist of countries that have mutual agreements to exchange intelligence data, which VPN users who are privacy conscious may want to avoid. Sweden is also considered torrent friendly and typically offers servers with commendable speeds, despite being part of the Fourteen Eyes alliance.
Prior to selecting a VPN location within a preferred country, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with its most recent privacy laws, as these can change over time. Be sure to take other factors into account too, such as connection speed and the country’s stance on torrenting. Keep in mind that even if you are torrenting legally, it’s vital to protect your privacy in order to avoid potential legal ramifications. Protecting your privacy can also shield you from potential cyberthreats like malware, phishing, and other threats associated with P2P file sharing.
Therefore, it’s important to thoroughly research and select a reputable VPN service provider that adheres to a strict no-logs policy verified by an independent third-party company. This will ensure you achieve optimal performance, privacy, and security while torrenting.
Best server location for speed
The best server locations for fast connections are usually those closest to your location. For example, if you are located in the U.S., it is ideal to choose an available server location in your state in a city nearer to you. On the other hand, if you are based in a European country, choosing a server location in Germany or the U.K. may be ideal.
Best server location for privacy
Switzerland is popularly known as the best VPN country if you prioritize privacy, due to its robust privacy laws and for being outside of the Five Eyes Alliance.
According to SwissMadeHost, here are some of the key laws that contribute to this protection:
- “Constitution: The Swiss Constitution enshrines the right to privacy as a fundamental right, which includes the right to privacy of communication and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
- Federal Data Protection Act (FDPA): This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of organizations and individuals with regards to collecting, processing, and storing personal data. The FDPA requires organizations to obtain consent before collecting personal data and to securely store the data.
- Telecommunications Law: This law regulates the collection, processing, and use of personal data in the telecommunications sector. The law requires telecommunications companies to protect the privacy of their customers and to ensure the confidentiality of their communications.”[1]
How to choose the best VPN server location for you
There are several factors to consider when choosing a VPN server location that is best suited for your needs. Depending on what you are looking for — whether it is server locations closer to you, servers that have greater access to streaming services, servers with favorable data protection laws, or other needs — consider the following factors when choosing a VPN location that is ideal for you:
- Proximity to your location: Connecting to a nearby server usually provides faster and more reliable connections, as it reduces latency (data travel time).
- Number of servers in that location: A higher number of servers in a location can enhance the performance of your connection by helping to distribute user load, thus reducing the chances of server overload.
- Streaming service availability: If you want to access geo-restricted content, choose a VPN server location in the region where the content you want to watch is available.
- Data protection laws: For privacy and security, opt for a server located in a country with strong data protection laws, such as Iceland or the British Virgin Islands, and avoid countries that are part of the Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, or Fourteen Eyes alliances.
- Country’s digital infrastructure: A country with a well-developed digital infrastructure can provide better connection speeds and overall performance.
- Internet censorship: If you live in a country that has a lot of restrictions and high levels of internet censorship, like China, choose a server address or location in a country that has more internet freedom.
- VPN provider’s reputation and security features: Ensure the VPN provider you choose has a good reputation, offers strong encryption and robust privacy and security features, and adheres to a strict no-logs policy that has been audited.
How to change your VPN location
If you want to change your VPN location, the good news is that it’s easy. Assuming you have already selected a VPN service and launched your VPN app, follow these instructions to change your VPN location:
- Open the server location menu: In the VPN app, locate and open the list of available server locations from the country of your choice.
- Choose a server location: Select a server location based on your needs and preferences, considering factors like proximity, streaming service availability, and data protection laws.
- Connect to the chosen server: Click or tap on the selected server location to establish a connection.
- Verify your new IP address: Visit a website like WhatIsMyIPAddress to confirm that your IP address and location have changed.
- Clear browsing data: To prevent websites from detecting your VPN usage, clear your cookies, cache, and browsing history.
- Enjoy your new online location: With your VPN location changed, you can now access geo-restricted content, enhance your privacy, and enjoy a more secure browsing experience.
Certain VPN services offer more advanced VPN features like double VPN or multi-hop, which allows you to select a new server location that routes your data through two different server locations. This feature is effective for enhancing your privacy and security.
The ultimate guide to choosing a VPN server location
This guide will show you how to choose the right VPN server location according to your needs. ExpressVPN has thousands of servers in scores of locations around the globe. See a full list of VPN server locations.
What would you like to do?
Access content like TV shows and movies from a certain country
Important: For VPN server recommendations on a specific streaming service, contact the ExpressVPN Support Team.
To watch content that is only available in a certain country, connect to a VPN server location in that country. If there is more than one VPN server location available for the same country, choose the one that is closest to your physical location.
To connect to a VPN server location:
- ExpressVPN Windows app
- ExpressVPN Mac app
- ExpressVPN iOS app
- ExpressVPN Android app
- ExpressVPN Linux app
- ExpressVPN router app
Bypass censorship in your current location
If you are in a country with censorship practices, use the Smart Location feature in the app. Smart Location automatically recommends the optimal location for you based on anonymous metrics such as download speed, latency, and distance.
Get a secure and private connection
For a secure and private connection, use the Smart Location feature in the app. Smart Location recommends the optimal location for you based on anonymous metrics like download speed, latency, and distance.
Get fast download speeds
There are numerous factors that determine download speeds. To find the VPN server location that will give you optimal download speeds, you can:
- Select a VPN server location that is closest to your physical location on the Recommended server location list.
- Use the Smart Location feature, which recommends the optimal location for you.
- Run the Speed Test in the ExpressVPN app for Mac or Windows. Connect to server location at the top of the results list.
Troubleshoot issues with my current VPN server location
If the VPN server location you are connected to is slower than expected, refer to this troubleshooting guide.
For other issues, follow the troubleshooting steps relevant to your use case:
- Secure and private connection: Connect to a different server location that is closest to your physical location on the Recommended server location list.
- ExpressVPN Windows app
- ExpressVPN Mac app
- ExpressVPN iOS app
- ExpressVPN Android app
- ExpressVPN Linux app
- ExpressVPN router app
- Connect to a VPN server location that is closest to your physical location on the Recommended list.
- Use the Smart Location feature, which recommends the optimal location for you.
- Run the Speed Test in the ExpressVPN app for Mac or Windows. Connect to server location at the top of the results list.
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How to Choose the Best VPN Server Locations and IPs
Depending on what you’re doing online, it might be better to connect to a VPN server in a specific country.
- For internet freedom, Iceland is a top choice. Connect to a VPN server in Iceland if you’re looking for anonymity when browsing online.
- For unblocking streaming services, use an American VPN server or one located in Canada. These countries have few internet restrictions and have the two biggest Netflix libraries outside of Japan. CyberGhost can unblock American Netflix.
- For speedy connections when online gaming, choose your VPN server carefully. Use a server that’s not too far from the online game’s servers and your own home country. With a choice of 94 countries, ExpressVPN is great for most countries worldwide.
Ready to start using a VPN? We recommend ExpressVPN for speed, no data logging, and the sheer number of countries with fast VPN servers.
ExpressVPN
You’ll find more information on which IP address to use in the full article below. We’ve broken this down into the best countries for different activities.
Want to change your IP address to one of the best VPN server locations? Not sure which IP address to use? You’ve come to the right place. While your network assigns one automatically, you can easily change your IP address with a VPN in just a few simple steps.
Whether you want to access blocked websites in another country, fix a VPN problem, or save money online, a VPN can help you achieve these goals.
Below, we’ve looked into the best IP addresses to use for a range of purposes, whether you’re online gaming, trying to access blocked websites, or streaming online.
Can You Change Your IP Address?
Changing your IP address is straightforward. Your IP address depends on what country you’re in, unless you’re using a VPN. With a VPN (Virtual Private Network), you could be sat on a beach in Thailand while masquerading as an English internet surfer.
When you connect to a VPN server, you’re assigned a new IP address that’s based in the same country as the server itself. So, if you’ve been locked out of a streaming website because it’s only available to residents of another country, simply find a VPN server in that country, and you’re good to go.
How do you change your IP address?
Changing your IP address is as simple as finding a VPN provider, downloading their software, and creating an account. As soon as you’re up and running, all you need to do is find a server in the country you want to use. Once you connect, all your internet traffic will be routed through that server securely.
For a comprehensive step-by-step plan about downloading and installing a VPN, check out our guide.
What are the Best VPN Server Locations?
Deciding on the best IP address to use isn’t necessarily straightforward. Much like deciding what clothes you should wear in the morning, it all depends on what you’re planning to do. Below, we’ve broken this question down into different categories, recommending the best VPN locations for internet freedom, fast connections, and unblocking sports or streaming. We’ve also recommended VPN providers to help get you started.
What’s the best VPN server location for fast and reliable connections?
Fast connections that don’t drop out on you are essential when you’re downloading or streaming with a VPN. However, finding the fastest VPN connections can be tricky, as you need to take into account multiple factors:
- A country’s infrastructure can affect internet speeds.
- Some VPN providers are faster than others.
- It’s typical for your connection to slow slightly when using a VPN.
- The number of servers in a country is important, as useroverload can slow your connection down.
- The greater the distance between you and your server, the greater the chance yourspeed will decrease.
To highlight how your VPN provider and choice of location can come into play, here’s an example. Below, you can see that our default connection without a VPN is running at 65.70 Mbps when downloading and 15.21 Mbps when uploading. With these speeds, you’ll have no trouble streaming, gaming, or anything else.
Now, let’s see that result again after connecting to an ExpressVPN server. ExpressVPN is commonly touted as one of the fastest VPNs, and we never have trouble with its speed. Since VPNs slow your connection slightly, we’re expecting a drop in speed.
You’ll see that while connected to a U.S. VPN server in New York, we saw a 32.6% drop in speed. However, the resulting speed (41.96 Mbps) is still more than sufficient for gaming, streaming, and downloading. Note the increase in ping resulting from the increased distance over which our data is now being transferred. Your ping is how long it takes for your computer to prod the server and get a response back. The smaller the number, in milliseconds, the better. Certain VPNs, like iTop VPN, often result in a sharper dip in speeds based on your location.
Here’s how some other common countries stack up against the U.S. server. You’ll notice how your choice of VPN location can affect the speed of your connection.
VPN server Ping Download speed Upload speed Decrease France 29 63.34 15.57 4% Germany 51 61.91 15.80 6% Iceland 111 5.95 13.92 91% Italy 61 56.96 15.34 13% Switzerland 54 6.32 6.71 90% And here are the key takeaways on finding the fastest VPN connections:
- Choose a fast VPN like ExpressVPN or SurfShark to ensure that you’re not being held back by a slower provider.
- Where possible, choose a nearby country to keep your ping low. If you’re in the UK, a European VPN server (for example an Italian one, or even a UK IP address) will likely give you the best speeds. If you’re in Asia, consider a server with a Japanese IP. American and Canadian VPN servers also tend to offer great speeds, providing you’re not too far away.
- Ping isn’t everything, as shown by the Icelandic and Swiss servers. Choose a country with a high volume of VPN servers.
The fastest VPN: our top pick
We’ve researched the fastest VPNs extensively, and we’re happy to share the top three choices for speed below:
- Surfshark wasn’t the outright fastest VPN in every scenario, but its speed excelled massively with distant servers. This makes it a strong contender all-round, especially for gaming or streaming on a VPN.
- NordVPN didn’t score too highly for speed on local servers, but their overseas VPN servers more than made up for these results. Other advantages, including excellent security, helped this VPN to take second place. Thanks to the newly introduced “NordLynx” protocol, it’s possible for speeds to reach up to 800 mb/s in some scenarios.
- ExpressVPN offers excellent speeds similar to those of NordVPN, but again, it’s the additional features that make it an excellent all-round VPN. These include a strict “no logging” policy, a straightforward user experience, and great online safety conditions. ExpressVPN also directly connects you to the fastest server based on your location.
So, in summary, for fast, overseas VPN connections, choose SurfShark, NordVPN, or ExpressVPN. Bear in mind that your actual speed will also depend on your home network’s capabilities.
What’s the best VPN server location for internet freedom?
The term “internet freedom” covers a lot of ground. When we talk about freedom online, we mean the ability to access the internet and avoid censorship. We also expect net neutrality, which means that ISPs (Internet Service Providers) should not discriminate against content. This isn’t just about censorship, but the idea that providers shouldn’t make it more difficult to access information by slowing down certain websites.
So, what’s the best VPN server location for internet freedom? According to Statista, Iceland takes the lead, with 95/100 on the Freedom House Index. This is a ranking based on numerous factors that include content limitations, violation of user rights, and obstacles to accessing content. This means that, with an Icelandic IP address, you’ll encounter the least amount of barriers and limitations online and have access to a greater range of content.
However, this doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to access everything with an Icelandic IP address. For instance, if you want to watch US Netflix, an Icelandic server won’t allow you to access that.
More importantly, Iceland has mandatory data retention laws that could be a threat to your online privacy and anonymity. Protecting these rights is important. That’s why we recommend ExpressVPN if you do plan on using an Icelandic VPN server for internet freedom. ExpressVPN has a zero-logging policy, which means that they will not store any logs concerning your online activities when you’re connected to their servers.
