VPNs (virtual private networks) are indispensable for privacy and security-centric user. Although they started as a network, the growing demand for digital security and online anonymity led to a drastic shift in this technology. As a result, it evolved into a web service that, like other digital security tools, defends the user against the maliciousness of the internet. Despite their popularity, VPNs still have room to grow, as predicted by industry insiders, which applies to Indonesia.
After all, we often witness whole countries at once embracing this product. One such country where VPN use is rampant is, you guessed it, Indonesia. Over 55% of its residents rely on a VPN to surf the internet. Although we won’t go into the reason behind this phenomenon, we would still like to help our readers by listing the leading VPNs for Indonesia.
Are VPNs legal in Indonesia?
Although the current regime is somewhat oppressive when it comes to free internet, VPNs are legal in Indonesia. An average Indonesian can’t access the internet as freely as intended. There are blocks in place that may be well-intended but hinder the freedom movement. Also, the board that oversees digital communication has the authority to monitor and surveil users. Thus, a VPN is essential if you want to exercise your freedom. It is one of the leading causes that made Indonesia one of the largest VPN consumers. However, there is no such ban on the use of VPNs. As long as you are within the law, you can use one.
Note — We do not condone the illegitimate use of VPNs. We recommend users follow legal guidelines and practice their best judgment when employing a VPN. Also, the following list is subjective and doesn’t hold authority—you’re free to pick whichever provider you like.
Best VPNs for Indonesia
Given below are our recommendations of several top choices for using VPNs in Indonesia. Let’s get into it.
1. ExpressVPN
Unsurprisingly, like any other list we curate, ExpressVPN can easily hold the top spot. It is a top-tier service that has repeatedly come out on top in the last few years. The VPN doesn’t have a giant network (only 3000+) but offers quality servers spread strategically over the globe. Hence, it can provide a stable and relatively fast connection no matter where you are. Thanks to these servers, which are also available in Indonesia, you can enjoy uninterrupted internet access.
Thus, the VPN is a favorite of activists and enthusiasts alike. The VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy and combines it with top-notch security features. It suits both beginners and advanced users. Consequently, despite its slightly higher price tag of $8.3 per month (on an annual plan) it is an optimal choice no matter what your requirements are. If interested, you can learn more about the service with our detailed ExpressVPN review.
2. NordVPN
We firmly believe NordVPN to be the only contender to ExpressVPN in recent times. It has everything that ExpressVPN has and sometimes even more. But it also offers a few things which are absent from the VPN mainstream, except for ExpressVPN. The service has a plethora of advanced features that include a kill switch, Tor, Double VPN, advanced obfuscation, exclusive protocols, split tunneling, and so on.
The VPN jurisdiction is also a plus (Panama), and so is the server strength of over 5400 servers. But the best thing that separates it from ExpressVPN is its popularity among users who do not have a VPN in play and the price tag of $3.3 monthly for a 2-year plan. Interested readers can always check out our detailed NordVPN review for further information.
3. CyberGhost VPN
A top choice when it comes to getting an affordable yet capable service is CyberGhost VPN. It is a VPN that is popular with travelers thanks to its large array of servers. Although the obfuscation leaves a lot to the imagination, the VPN works fairly well for streaming and torrenting. It is a top-tier provider that taps out at 7800+ servers in 91 different countries, Indonesia included.
Hailing from Romania, the VPN embodies privacy with a strict no-logs policy and offers advanced features like an AdBlocker, Dedicated IP, Smart DNS, Split Tunneling, and Tor over VPN servers. To top it all off, the service is affordable at $2.30 per month on a 3-year plan. If you want to know more about the service, check out our detailed CyberGhost review.
4. PIA (Private Internet Access)
PIA is one of the oldest and largest VPN providers on the market. Owing to its network of over 17000 servers spread in 84 countries, it can work anywhere. Hence, it is a top choice for anything VPN-related. Although the sole drawback is its jurisdiction which is the United States, the vendor always tries its best to invoke trust.
Be it an independent audit or a stringent no-logs policy PIA does its best to strengthen its trustworthiness. A price tag of only $2 monthly on a 2-year plan also helps. Another plus is its unparalleled local speed. PIA is also one of the most sought-after gaming VPNs. To know more, read our Private Internet Access review.
5. Surfshark VPN
Surfshark is a VPN that is arguably the best at streaming yet, at the same time, affordable. It can bypass geo-blocks, and it comes with tons of extra stuff that can enhance your internet experience. Although the speed can further improve, there isn’t a large discrepancy between local and international connections.
Hailing from the Netherlands, the VPN has a network of 3200+ servers spread across 65 countries. Although it is not the cheapest, it is still good value for money for what it brings to the table. If you are in for the long run, you can employ this VPN for as cheap as $2.49 per month on a 2-year plan. Also, interested readers should read our Surfshark VPN review.
6. IPVanish VPN
Albeit a mid-tier provider, IPVanish is not a name that users can disregard without taking another glance. The VPN offers fast speed and is excellent and highly customizable. It is well-rounded for both leisure and serious tasks. Although the apps need a few teaks to be decently user-friendly, the service itself is suitable for streaming, torrenting, and bypassing censorship. With 2000 servers and over 40000 IP addresses available, IPVanish is quite capable. However, it is somewhat on the costlier end at $3.99 per month on an annual plan. Although there is much more to talk about the service, there is no time, hence we propose giving our IPVanish review a chance.