Online users who either reside in or are visiting the Bahamas will find that they enjoy relatively unfettered access to the internet. However, they do face the same online risks and blockades that internet users around the globe face.
Hackers, the government and your Internet Service Provider (ISP) all monitor your online activities. Users also face geographically enforced restrictions on online content, like what popular streaming services offer.
Luckily, online users have access to a powerful tool that allows them to keep their online activities incognito, while also providing access to geo-controlled content around the globe.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection. This virtual tunnel of protection prevents hackers, the government, ISPs and other nosy types from monitoring and logging details about your online travels.
A VPN can also temporarily assign a fresh IP address to your connected device. If the new IP address is one that is assigned for use inside of another country, the rest of the internet sees you as connecting from that country. This means you’ll gain access to content that might normally be blocked in your actual location.
In this article, I’ll provide a close look at the 5 best VPN providers for use while visiting or living in the Bahamas.
How to Use a VPN in The Bahamas
Follow the steps listed below and you’ll reliably protect and enhance your Bahamian internet activities:
- Subscribe to a quality VPN provider. (NordVPN is my #1 choice.)
- Install the VPN’s app(s) on your device(s).
- Log in to the VPN service.
- Select a VPN server outside of the Bahamas to access geo-blocked content located in another country, or to protect your online activities.
- Enjoy your secure and enhanced internet freedom!
Best VPN Services for the Bahamas
The 5 VPN providers that I have listed below offer reliable online security and enhancement for your online activities from the Bahamas.
The “no time for a lot of details” version:
- NordVPN: This top-ranked VPN provider provides reliable access to content around the globe thanks to its large global server network. Fast connections, comprehensive security and privacy protections, and more all add up to the top VPN protection and enhancement while in the Bahamas.
- Surfshark: This provider is the best budget-priced VPN for the Bahamas (and elsewhere). Surfshark boasts an impressive global server network that provides fast, well-protected connections to geo-restricted content around the globe. It does all of this for a low fee when you opt for an extended subscription.
- ExpressVPN: While this is the highest-priced VPN option on this list, it is also one of the most reliable and well-established VPNs on this list. The provider’s impressive global server network delivers fast, well-protected connections to content around the globe.
- CyberGhost: If you’ve never used a VPN or if you’re simply in search of easy-to-use VPN protection, CyberGhost could be the provider for you. Its easy-to-use apps provide one-click protected connections to a massive global server network.
- IPVanish: This provider is a bit lacking in its global server coverage, but it is working to resolve that. The provider owns and operates its entire global server network, meaning users benefit from extra privacy, as third-party contractors are kept away from personal information.
When ranking these VPN providers, I considered the following factors:
- Global server network
- Security and privacy protections
- Connection speeds
- Native app support
- Customer support
Here is my list of the 5 top VPN service providers for residents and visitors to the Bahamas.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is my top pick for VPN protection while in the Bahamas.
The provider’s impressive global server network includes 5,200+ servers stationed in 60 countries around the globe. This means the VPN service provides reliable access to geo-controlled content and websites around the globe.
The provider is currently in the process of moving its server network from a leased model to a self-owned and self-operated one. This will provide additional privacy for NordVPN users, as it keeps third-party contractors away from their personal data.
NordVPN connection protection uses banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption, automatic kill switch protection, and IP/DNS leak protection. Ad and malware blocking are also available. The provider’s NordLynx protocol (based on Wireguard) is optimized for both performance and protection.
NordVPN’s independently-audited no-logs policy means no information about your online travels is ever written to the provider’s servers. It also accepts cryptocurrency as a private subscription payment option.
NordVPN recently began running all of its servers 100% from RAM, with no data whatsoever being written to a physical hard drive. This ensures that all data is completely wiped from NordVPN servers when they are rebooted.
NordVPN download speeds are some of the best around, providing top-notch performance for your favorite online activities.
NordVPN app support includes options for the Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS (with native M1 Mac support) and Windows platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is comprehensive router compatibility.
Up to 6 devices can simultaneously connect on a single account.
Customer support options include 24/7 support chat, email support and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- Comprehensive privacy and online security
- Native app support for popular devices
- Large global server network
- Fast download speeds
- All server operations run 100% only from RAM
Cons:
- Doesn’t label streaming servers in apps
BEST OVERALL VPN FOR THE BAHAMAS:NordVPN is the top VPN option for reliable enhancement and protection in the Bahamas, as well as elsewhere. An impressive global server network delivers fast and well-protected connections that provide reliable access to geo-controlled content around the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is the best choice for users in search of budget-priced yet reliable VPN protection while in the Bahamas.
The provider boasts an impressively large global server network, with 3,200+ servers located in 65 countries around the world. The provider says it has the ability to unlock 30+ Netflix libraries around the globe.
Surfshark protects all of its users’ connections with government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6/DNS leak protection. In addition, the provider’s “Multi-Hop” server option allows you to route your internet connection through a pair of VPN servers for added anonymity and encryption.
The provider’s strict no-server-logs policy, as well as its acceptance of Bitcoin as subscription payment, help to protect your overall privacy.
The provider’s connections were the fastest I saw in my most recent round of download speed tests. Surfshark never spoils your fun with data caps or bandwidth throttling.
Surfshark app support includes options for the Android, iOS, Linux, macOS (with native Apple Silicon support), Windows and Amazon Fire device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions protect your browsing sessions, while comprehensive router support provides protection for all of your devices through a single point of action.
Surfshark allows users to protect an unlimited number of connected devices at once.
Always-available customer support options include 24/7 live support chat, a contact form and a searchable support library.
Pros:
- “Multi-Hop” server option adds encryption and anonymity
- Impressive global server network
- No limits on VPN connections
- Comprehensive native device support
Cons:
- One-month subscription price is expensive
BEST VPN FOR BUDGET-MINDED USERS:Surfshark is the best option for users on a tight budget. The provider charges a reasonable price for an impressive global server network, top-notch online security, comprehensive privacy protections, fast connections and unlimited simultaneous VPN connections. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of Surfshark.
3. ExpressVPN
This premium-priced VPN provider delivers equally premium VPN services.
ExpressVPN boasts a large global server network, with more than 3,000 servers based in close to 95 countries, the Bahamas included. That network has a reputation for delivering reliable access to content around the globe.
The provider offers industry-standard connection protection, including 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch option, and IPv6/DNS leak protection. Its proprietary Lightway protocol is optimized for performance and protection.
ExpressVPN’s servers run with no server logs ever being saved, and the provider accepts cryptocurrency as subscription payment.
In addition, the provider runs all server operations 100% from RAM, writing no data whatsoever to a physical hard disk. This ensures that all data is totally wiped when the servers are restarted.
ExpressVPN’s connection speeds are some of the fastest around, and they can easily handle streaming, gaming or any other popular online activities. No bandwidth limitations or data caps to worry about here.
Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Chromebook, Linux and Windows apps are available, as are Chrome, Edge and Firefox browser extensions. ExpressVPN recently updated its quality router firmware.
Up to 5 devices can concurrently connect on a single account.
ExpressVPN’s customer support includes a 24/7 live support chat option, an email support option, a trouble ticket tracking system and a searchable knowledge base.
Pros:
- Fast download speeds
- Top-notch online privacy and security
- Comprehensive global server coverage
- All servers run exclusively from RAM
Cons:
- Highest-priced VPN on this list
- Only allows 5 concurrent connections
RELIABLE VPN FOR THE BAHAMAS:While ExpressVPN does carry a premium tariff, it also offers a premium level of VPN protection and enhancement. Fast and well-protected connections from an impressive global server network provide reliable access to geo-blocked content around the globe. A 30-day, no-risk money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
If you have little to no experience with VPN services, you’ll appreciate CyberGhost’s easy-to-use VPN protection.
With one of the most impressive global server networks in the VPN industry (7,100+ servers located in 90+ countries, including the Bahamas), the provider delivers excellent access to content around the globe. Numerous CyberGhost servers are optimized for streaming as well as sharing files.
CyberGhost’s download speeds are also quite impressive, and neither data caps nor bandwidth throttling are ever a worry when using the provider.
Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection protect all CyberGhost connections. The provider can also block malicious websites and online trackers. The VPN can also force websites to serve up secure versions of their pages.
In addition to quality VPN protection, CyberGhost also offers a security suite for Windows users that offers antivirus and malware protection, the ability to control how much information Microsoft can collect about you, and a feature that notifies you when apps are in need of an update. A password manager and a feature to warn you when your email address is exposed in a data breach are also available.
CyberGhost is a no-server-logs provider, and you can also pay for your subscription with Bitcoin.
Easy-to-use apps are available for most platforms, including the Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, Amazon Fire and Android TV device platforms. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is router support.
Up to 7 devices can be simultaneously connected to CyberGhost servers on a single account.
Always-available support includes 24/7 live support chat, a trouble ticket tracking system and a searchable support library team.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use apps
- Streaming- and file sharing-optimized servers
- Huge global server network
- Up to 7 simultaneous connections
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in some restrictive countries
ATTRACTIVE VPN FOR ROOKIE VPN USERS:CyberGhost’s easy-to-use apps are available for most popular devices. Fast download speeds from a huge global server network provide access to content nearly everywhere. Streaming- and downloading-optimized servers are available. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
While this provider has some building to do when it comes to its global server coverage, it offers an additional level of privacy for its customers.
The provider’s global server network (1,900+ servers in 57+ countries) is the smallest network on this list. IPVanish has announced that it will be expanding its server network during the coming year. IPVanish owns and operates its server network, keeping third-party contractors away from your personal data, providing extra privacy.
Banking-grade 256-bit AES encryption and a kill switch with an auto-reconnect option protect your online travels. Meanwhile, a “scramble” feature disguises your VPN activity as normal browser traffic. The provider is currently in the process of rolling out the WireGuard connection protocol to all of its users.
Although IPVanish doesn’t accept any type of cryptocurrency, it does follow a strict no-server-logs-ever policy.
IPVanish connection speeds provide more than enough download speeds to handle streaming, gaming and your other favorite online activities. No bandwidth limitations or data caps to worry about with this provider.
IPVanish offers apps for the Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS and Amazon Fire device platforms. No browser extensions make the scene. However, router support does.
You can connect as many devices as you’d like to IPVanish servers at once.
IPVanish customer support includes 24/7 live support chat, a searchable support library and email support.
Pros:
- Keeps third-party contractors away from your data
- No simultaneous connections limit
- Top-notch security and privacy protections
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer browser extensions
- No cryptocurrency payment option
UNLIMITED DEVICE PROTECTION:IPVanish provides top-notch privacy thanks to its owned-and-operated server network. It protects an unlimited number of fast and well-protected connections for your devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
Read my full review of IPVanish.
Methodology for Assessing VPNs for The Bahamas
Bahamian residents and visitors should consider several factors when deciding on a VPN.
The following is a list of all of the factors that I consider when deciding which VPNs to recommend for a particular situation:
- Connection Speeds: While a faster connection may not make paying your bills or filing your taxes fun, it will make most any other online activity more enjoyable. The VPNs on this list offer above-average connection speeds.
- Global Server Network: Large global server networks offer expanded access to geo-controlled content around the globe. Also, you should give bonus points to providers with multiple servers in each location.
- Value: To determine a VPN’s value, weigh the provider’s asking price against the array of features it offers. Every VPN on this list offers an excellent value.
- Ease of Use: Look for easy-to-use apps for numerous popular device platforms. The VPNs on my list generally offer support for most popular device platforms.
- Security and Privacy: Don’t settle for less than banking-grade encryption, automatic kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection. A strict no-logs policy is also a must-have feature.
- Streaming: Look for a VPN that offers access to multiple streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer and other popular streaming services.
Check out more information about my VPN testing methodology.
Why Can’t I Use a Free VPN in The Bahamas?
Sure, you can probably find a free VPN that will work in the Bahamas. However, I am certain that the whole free VPN experience will be lacking. Let’s take a look at “free” VPNs.
First of all, “free” VPNs do not protect your online privacy.
Free VPNs are not a charity, they need to pay their bills. Many do so by tracking their users’ online activities. They then sell that valuable information to advertisers or anyone else that can pay for it.
Plus, many free VPNs insert unwanted tracking cookies and ads into their users’ browser sessions. (Guess what? Those cookies continue to track you, even when you’re not connected to the free VPN.)
Free VPNs also come up short in the convenience and performance arenas.
You may be forced to wait in a queue before being allowed to connect to a free VPN’s limited number of servers. Or, you may simply be automatically connected to a server of the provider’s selection.
Once connected, you’ll likely find that your connection speeds have slowed greatly. Free VPNs also impose daily or monthly data caps on their free users’ usage. This is because they preserve their available bandwidth for paying customers.
If you’re looking to save some money on a VPN, don’t immediately opt for a freebie provider. Instead, take a look at NordVPN or Surfshark. Both providers offer reliable VPN protection for a low price.
What Other Advantages Does a VPN Provide?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides access to geo-controlled content around the globe, while also keeping all of your online activities undercover.
A VPN provides access to geo-controlled content around the world.
A VPN temporarily assigns a new IP address to your device. IP addresses can be used to detect a device’s geographical location, so it will look to the rest of the internet that you’re connecting from another part of the globe, enabling access to content intended only for that area of the world.
In addition, a VPN’s encrypted connection keeps your online activities undercover from nosy types. This means that your online travels will not be tracked or monitored.
The encryption also prevents your ISP from throttling or blocking your connection. ISPs will do this if you’re engaging in what it calls “unapproved” activities, including streaming from certain video services or sharing files via P2P services.
VPN encryption also protects you when you’re connected to an unprotected public Wi-Fi hotspot, such as those found in coffee shops, hotels and other public locations.
Hackers love to hang out on hotspots, targeting hotspot users while they browse the web, pay bills or shop online. This is because the lack of encrypted protection on the hotspot makes it easy for bad guys to monitor other users’ online activities, allowing them to steal valuable personal and business information from their victims.
Conclusion
Residents and visitors to the Bahamas are strongly advised to investigate the benefits that a Virtual Private Network (VPN) offers. My #1 choice is NordVPN.
NordVPN provides comprehensive online security and privacy protections. The provider’s impressive global server network provides reliable access to content around the globe. Native app support is available for most popular device platforms. Customer support is always available.
For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.
