At a Glance
The internet first came to Mongolia in 1995 and as of 2020 68.1% of the population has access to it. Access is mostly in urban areas. The poor internet access in the countryside has led the area to be a popular destination for those looking for a “digital detox.”
While there are no government restrictions on the internet in Mongolia, there have been reports of government surveillance, including monitoring of email accounts. In addition, not all online services, such as streaming services, are available in the country, or the content differs from that of other regions.
Luckily, there is a way for Mongolian residents to protect their online travels from government monitoring and gain access to blocked content, both inside and outside of Mongolian borders.
Will a VPN Help Me in Mongolia?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, preventing the Mongolian government, your Internet Service Provider (ISP), or hackers from seeing what you’re doing online.
A VPN can also temporarily make it appear that you are connecting to the internet from another country, opening access to websites, streaming services, and other geo-blocked online content that may normally be blocked from inside Mongolia.
In this article, I’ll provide a look at the six best VPNs for use from inside Mongolian borders.
Best VPNs for Mongolia
As I traditionally do, I have run a large number of VPN providers through their paces, and have determined which VPNs offer the best online protection and access to blocked content.
For those of you with busy lives or who simply don’t want to get bogged down by the details, the short and sweet version of the VPN top six this time around is as follows.
Best VPNs for Mongolia:
- NordVPN: #1 ranked VPN for Mongolia. NordVPN tops this list thanks to its reliable global server coverage, excellent online security and privacy protection, fast connection speeds, and more – all for a reasonable price. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Surfshark is the budget-priced winner on this list. The provider offers a fast-growing global server network, fast connections, and an unlimited number of concurrent connections.
- ExpressVPN: Premium VPN protection. This reliable but expensive VPN provider offers a great way to access geo-blocked content around the world while protecting your online activities from observation by outsiders. Has servers stationed in Mongolia.
- CyberGhost: Great option for rookie VPN users. First-time VPN users will appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use array of apps. The provider offers one-click access to streaming- and file-sharing-optimized servers. Servers are available inside Mongolia.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection for Mongolian users. PIA provides comprehensive online security and privacy protection while delivering reliable access to content around much of the globe.
- PrivateVPN: Atom Ant-level VPN provider. Like the 60s superhero, this provider’s global server network is quite small. However, it powerfully provides well-protected access to geo-fenced content in the countries that it serves.
When selecting which VPNs were best for Mongolia, I considered these factors:
- Global server coverage (bonus points for servers in Mongolia)
- Security and privacy protections
- Connection speeds
- Level of native app support
- Customer support offerings
When it comes to the best online security and enhancement both inside and outside of Mongolian borders, the following six VPNs proved to be the best.
1. NordVPN
Mongolian residents and visitors looking for top-notch online protection and access to geo-blocked content will want to give NordVPN a close look.
NordVPN has more than 5,600 servers located in 60+ countries around the globe. This provides plenty of access to geo-blocked content around the world.
Your online activities are kept undercover, thanks to NordVPN’s use of government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch protection, and DNS leak prevention. Its optional CyberSec protection helps block malware, botnets, and ads. Double VPN can be used to change a user’s IP address twice.
NordVPN also follows a strict no-server-logs policy and it accepts Bitcoin as payment for its services. The provider’s owned-and-operated servers help keep things private by keeping third-party contractors away from your personal info. Plus, all NordVPN servers are run 100% from RAM, with no data ever being written to a physical hard drive or SSD. This ensures that all data is securely wiped when a server is restarted or shut down.
NordVPN provided fast connection speeds in my most recent round of connection speed tests. The provider’s connections can easily handle HD and 4K video streams, fast-moving online games, and file sharing. (Depending on your usual connection speeds, of course.) The provider never spoils the fun with connection throttling or data caps.
The provider also has you covered when it comes to support for most popular devices, offering native apps for macOS (including native M1/M2 Mac support), Linux, Windows, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, and Android TV platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. NordVPN is compatible with numerous router makes and models.
Up to six devices can simultaneously connect to the provider’s service on a single set of login credentials.
NordVPN also offers a SmartDNS ability, which allows set-top boxes, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, to connect to international content. Unfortunately, the service doesn’t encrypt your connection like a VPN does.
NordVPN customer support includes 24/7 chat, email support, and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Fastest connection speeds
- Top-notch online security
- Comprehensive privacy
- Reasonably-priced multi-year options
- Excellent global server network
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer streaming-enhanced servers
BEST VPN FOR MONGOLIA:NordVPN is the best VPN option for users both inside and outside of Mongolia. The provider offers fast, well-protected connections from servers around the globe, all at a reasonable price. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is the budget-priced VPN option on this list. While the provider is an excellent low-cost option, it doesn’t skimp on features.
Once upon a time, Surfshark’s global server network was one of the smallest in the VPN industry, but it has grown considerably over the last year or so. Surfshark now has 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries around the globe (including Mongolia).
Surfshark’s network is protected with government-grade AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and DNS leak protection, as well as malware and phishing protections. Ad and tracker blocking is also available.
The provider’s optional “Camouflage” mode hides your VPN usage. Plus, its “MultiHop” option routes your connection through two VPN servers to double up on encryption and anonymity.
A strict no-server-logs policy and a Bitcoin subscription payment option keep things private. The provider also runs its servers 100% from RAM. No data is ever written to a physical hard drive, and all data is wiped when a server is rebooted or shut down.
Surfshark’s connection speeds can easily handle HD and 4K streaming, gaming, and file sharing. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about with this provider.
Native app options are available for macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Firefox, Edge, and Chrome browser extensions are also available, as is compatibility with a variety of router makes and models.
The provider’s Trust DNS service provides a way for smart TVs, set-top boxes, and game consoles to benefit from the provider’s content-unblocking powers, although without any connection encryption.
An unlimited simultaneous connections allowance enables Surfshark users to simultaneously connect an unlimited number of devices to the service at once.
Customer support includes 24/7 live chat, email support, a contact form, and a searchable knowledge base.
Pros:
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
- Unlimited connections
- Budget-priced subscription options
- Fast connection speeds
- Great app support
Cons:
- Apps lack advanced options
BEST BUDGET-MINDED VPN OPTION:Users looking for a reliable yet low-priced VPN will appreciate the offering from Surfshark. The provider offers top-notch online security and privacy for an unlimited number of devices at once. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is an excellent VPN option for users who don’t mind paying a bit more for premium VPN service.
The provider has one of the best global server networks in the industry, with over 3,000 servers in more than 90 countries around the globe (including Mongolia). This ensures you have reliable access to geo-blocked content around the world.
The provider also offers comprehensive online security and privacy protections thanks to its use of banking-grade AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch protection, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak prevention.
While the provider offers the industry-standard OpenVPN protocol, it is also readying its own proprietary “Lightway” protocol, which it says is designed to provide optimized security as well as performance.
A Bitcoin subscription payment option and a strict no-server-logs-ever policy have your privacy protected.
The provider’s “TrustedServer” technology runs all server operations completely from RAM, never saving any information to a physical hard drive. This means that all data is completely erased from the provider’s servers whenever they are rebooted.
ExpressVPN is no longer the king in the connection speed arena, but it still offers fast connections. The provider’s speeds can easily handle streaming video, online gaming, and file sharing. (Depending on your usual ISP-provided connection speeds, of course.) No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about from this provider.
ExpressVPN makes apps available for macOS (with M1/M2 Mac support), Linux, Windows, Android, Chromebook, iOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Browser extensions are available for the Chrome, Brave, Vivaldi, Edge, and Firefox platforms.
The provider’s router compatibility can also protect any connected device not on the above list. Plus, ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer service offers game consoles, set-top boxes, and smart TVs access to geo-blocked content, but without encrypted protection.
ExpressVPN allows up to five devices to simultaneously connect to its server network on a single account.
It offers 24/7 live chat, email support, a trouble ticket tracking system, and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Excellent global server network
- High-end online security and privacy
- Excellent access to geo-blocked content
- Comprehensive device support
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other providers on this list
- Only five concurrent connections
RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION:ExpressVPN is a reliable, if somewhat expensive, VPN option. Excellent online security and privacy for a large number of popular devices are among the provider’s fine offerings, as well as reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is an attractive option for first-time VPN users thanks to its easy-to-use apps, fast connections, and more.
The provider has over 9,000 servers based in 90+ countries, including Mongolia. (The Mongolian servers are not physically located in Mongolia, but provide access to content inside the country.)
CyberGhost provides optional online protection and privacy. The provider uses military-grade 256-bit encryption and DNS leak prevention, and also offers ad and malicious website blocking. The VPN can also force websites to serve up HTTPS versions of their web pages if they are available.
The provider keeps no logs of any kind on their servers and accepts Bitcoin as a subscription payment.
CyberGhost’s fast connections can easily handle HD and 4K video streams, file sharing, and online gaming. The provider also offers one-click access to streaming- and downloading-optimized servers in numerous spots around the world. No data caps or bandwidth limitations to worry about here.
It offers easy-to-use native apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, macOS, Android TV, and Amazon Fire devices. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, and the service is compatible with multiple brands of routers.
Up to seven of these devices can connect simultaneously to the provider’s network on a single set of login credentials.
Customer support includes 24/7 live chat, a trouble ticket tracking system, and an easy-to-search knowledge base.
Pros:
- Thousands of servers, including in Mongolia
- Easy-to-use apps
- Streaming-optimized servers
Cons:
- Some servers serve up slow speeds
- No native router apps
BEST FOR NEWBIE VPN USERS:New VPN users will appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps. Other users will also appreciate its streaming- and file-sharing-optimized servers. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of CyberGhost.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) delivers reliable, well-protected connections to content in Mongolia and other countries.
PIA’s global server network includes 3,300+ servers based in close to 85 countries, Mongolia included.
PIA’s tunnel of banking-grade encryption keeps your online travels undercover, while also offering IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection. The provider also provides ad, tracker, malware, and dangerous website blocking.
The provider keeps no logs connected to its users’ online travels while they’re connected to its server network. Bitcoin is available as a subscription payment option, protecting your payment privacy. (Use a disposable email address for additional privacy.)
PIA offers native app support for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are available to protect your browsing sessions. The provider is also compatible with select routers. The provider allows up to 10 devices to be simultaneously connected to its servers.
The provider’s connection speeds are the second-slowest on this list. However, the provider delivers more than enough bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and other popular online pastimes. Plus, the provider never spoils the fun with daily or monthly data caps or bandwidth throttling.
PIA’s customer support department offers live support agent chat, a trouble ticket system, and a support library.
Pros:
- Reliable protection in Mongolia and in other countries
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
- Impressive global server coverage
Cons:
- Lacks streaming-optimized servers
- Has issues working in restrictive countries
RELIABLE MONGOLIAN VPN PROTECTION:Private Internet Access provides reliable access to content around most of the globe. PIA provides comprehensive online security and privacy protection for most popular device platforms. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Private Internet Access.
6. PrivateVPN
While PrivateVPN has the smallest global server network on this list (with just over 200 servers, spread well among 60+ countries), it provides reliable access to content located in the countries where it has servers.
Although PrivateVPN’s connection speeds are the slowest on this list, they deliver enough bandwidth for streaming, gaming, and sharing files.
PrivateVPN protects its users’ connections with banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and more. Its “Stealth VPN” feature keeps your VPN use undercover by disguising it as normal browser use.
PrivateVPN’s strict no-server logs policy means there are no records saved of your online activities whenever you’re connected to PrivateVPN servers. A cryptocurrency payment option keeps your subscription information private.
App support is limited to Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows device platforms and browser extensions are not available. The VPN provider can be manually set up on Linux devices and select routers.
The provider allows up to 10 concurrent connections to its servers on a single account.
PrivateVPN’s customer support offerings include a live chat option, a support request form, and an FAQ support section.
Pros:
- Reliable access to content around the globe
- Stealth VPN hides your VPN activity
- Comprehensive online security and privacy
Cons:
- Not many servers
- Limited app support
SMALL BUT MIGHTY VPN:PrivateVPN’s small but mighty global server network provides reliable access to content in the 60+ countries where it has servers. The provider keeps things undercover, thanks to its well-protected connections, while its “Stealth VPN” protection disguises your VPN usage. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of PrivateVPN.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Mongolia
While Mongolian internet users enjoy mostly unrestricted internet, there have been reports of the government monitoring users’ online activities. Users also face the usual online dangers and restrictions faced by other internet users around the globe. There are several features that should be considered before deciding on a VPN:
- Global server network: A VPN provider with a large global server network provides better access to geo-fenced content in other countries. Also, the more servers a provider has in a single country, the less chance of any single server being overloaded with too many connections.
- Connection speeds: No matter what your favorite online pastime is, a faster connection is an asset. The VPNs I included on my list performed well in my connection speed tests.
- Value: A VPN’s value can best be determined by comparing a VPN provider’s asking price to the features it offers. The VPNs on my list offer an excellent return on investment.
- Ease of use: A VPN’s apps should be easy-to-use, and be available for popular device platforms. The VPNs I include on my list offer intuitive apps.
- Security and privacy: Any VPN worth its salt protects your internet connection with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. A strict no-logs policy is also a must. The providers on my list provide top-notch online security and privacy protection.
- Streaming: Streaming is one of the most popular online pastimes today. Most of the VPNs on this list offer reliable access to multiple streaming sites, including Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other popular streamers.
My data-driven research doesn’t end with the list above. This is just a portion of my VPN testing methodology. This in-depth approach helps me to better rate these VPNs and their services, which allows me to recommend only VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ online needs.
How to Use a VPN to Connect Inside and Outside of Mongolia
No matter where you’re located, here’s how to protect and enhance your internet activities with a VPN:
- Subscribe to a VPN provider (NordVPN is my #1 choice).
- Download and install the VPN app(s) on your device(s).
- Log into the app.
- Select and connect to a server in Mongolia if you’re looking to access Mongolian content, or a server in another part of the world for other content.
- Enjoy your newly free and safe internet experience!
Can I Use a Free VPN in Mongolia?
While you may be able to find a free VPN that works inside of Mongolia, I can almost guarantee that it won’t be a good experience. While you’ll save money, it’ll cost you in terms of convenience, performance, and online security and privacy.
First, convenience. Most free VPNs have a limited number of servers based in a limited number of countries. Plus, some free VPNs will make you cool your heels in a queue. Then, when you’re given the green light to connect, you’ll either have a limited number of servers to select from, or you’ll be automatically connected to a server of the provider’s choice.
Once you’re connected, expect your connection to slow down big time. Many VPN providers limit the bandwidth that they let their free users use to preserve it for their paying customers. Plus, they limit free usage by imposing daily or monthly data caps.
As for your online security and privacy, those are at risk when you use a freebie VPN. Many free VPNs will log their users’ online activities, and then sell the information to advertisers and other interested parties. Some have even been caught inserting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into users’ browsing sessions.
All of this might not bother you, but it sure does bother me. That’s why I stay away from free VPNs.
Conclusion
My #1 VPN for protecting and enhancing your online activities inside and outside of Mongolia is NordVPN.
The provider offers wide-ranging global server coverage, comprehensive native app support, excellent online security and privacy, and fast connections.
For more information or to subscribe, visit the NordVPN website.
VPNs for Mongolia FAQs
Are VPNs Legal in Mongolia?
While Mongolian citizens can be subject to online monitoring and tracking by the government, so far the use of VPNs inside of the country has not been outlawed.
Can Netflix Find Out I'm Using a VPN From Inside Mongolia?
While Netflix may not be able to detect your true location (Mongolia), they may be able to detect whether or not you are using a VPN to access their content. If the IP address assigned to your device by your VPN matches an IP address that is on the “blacklist” of VPN-provided IP addresses, Netflix may block you from viewing its content.
If this happens, clear the cookies and cache from your browser (if you’re viewing in a browser) and then connect to another server.
Is a Free Mongolia VPN Proxy Server Safe?
No. First of all, if an online service is free, then YOU are the product that they’re selling. Free proxies and VPNs have been known to track their users’ online travels, selling that information to anyone willing to pay for it. Plus, proxies do not encrypt your internet connection like a VPN does, which means a proxy does not keep your online travels undercover.
Can I Use a VPN to Watch Mongolian TV from Abroad?
While some Mongolian streaming services don’t restrict their content on a geographical basis, there are still some that do. By using a VPN with servers based inside of Mongolia, you’ll gain access to all of the Mongolian streaming services. (Some streaming services will require you to pay for a subscription.)
Contents [hide]
- At a Glance
- Will a VPN Help Me in Mongolia?
- Best VPNs for Mongolia
- 1. NordVPN
- 2. Surfshark
- 3. ExpressVPN
- 4. CyberGhost
- 5. Private Internet Access
- 6. PrivateVPN
- Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Mongolia
- How to Use a VPN to Connect Inside and Outside of Mongolia
- Can I Use a Free VPN in Mongolia?
- Conclusion
- VPNs for Mongolia FAQs
- Are VPNs Legal in Mongolia?
- Can Netflix Find Out I'm Using a VPN From Inside Mongolia?
- Is a Free Mongolia VPN Proxy Server Safe?
- Can I Use a VPN to Watch Mongolian TV from Abroad?