What Is the Best VPN Provider for Chicago in 2024?

At a Glance

Although Chicago, Illinois is located in the relatively free United States, where the web traffic isn’t blocked or filtered to any heavy extent, Chicagoland residents and visitors can still benefit greatly from a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

If you’re connected to the internet, you’re in danger of being monitored or hacked. Want to know a secret? Many of your devices are always connected. Hackers are always looking for an easy score, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) tracks your online travels, and the government would love to follow you around the web.

Why Do I Need a VPN in Chicago?

While in the Chicago area, you’ll find that you may not have access to your favorite streaming content. This includes sports streaming services, which means you may not be able to watch the Cubs or Bulls online, due to geographical restrictions.

Plus, if you’re a Chicagoan traveling or living abroad, you’ll likely find that you don’t have access to your favorite U.S. and Chicago-based content.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) not only encrypts your connection, keeping your online travels encased in a tunnel of impenetrable protection, but it can also assign a new IP address from another part of the world, opening up access to geo-blocked content around the globe.

In this article, I’ll serve up information about the top seven VPNs for use in Chicago and other parts of the world.

How to Use a VPN To Protect Your Online Activities in Chicago

To use a VPN while inside Chicago city limits, do the following:

1. Subscribe to a reliable VPN provider. (NordVPN is my #1 choice.)
2. Install the VPN’s app(s) on your connected device(s), install browser extensions if applicable, and set up your WiFi router to work with the service, if you want to protect all of your connected devices.
3. Log in to the VPN service.
4. Select a VPN server located in the United States to protect your online activities from being monitored, or to access U.S.-only content while abroad. You can also select a server located outside of U.S. borders to open access to geo-blocked content in other countries.
5. Enjoy your new online anonymity and access to geo-blocked content!

Best VPNs for Chicago

I put all VPN service providers through rounds of strenuous testing before I ever recommend them to my readers. (We’ll discuss more about that later.)

These seven VPN providers are the best VPN services for internet users in Chicago:

1. NordVPN: NordVPN is the #1 VPN for Chicago-based online users. The provider delivers fast connections, an extensive global server network, comprehensive app support, and excellent privacy and security protections. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Chicago. This provider offers excellent VPN servers at a low price, making it an excellent option for users on a tight budget. Provides unlimited, fast connections from a large global server network.
3. ExpressVPN: Great premium VPN option. This premium-priced provider delivers equally premium VPN services. An impressive global server network, excellent app support, and comprehensive online protection are just the beginning.
4. CyberGhost: Great VPN option for beginners. Rookie VPN users will appreciate this provider’s easy-to-use apps that provide one-click access to a massive global server network, which includes streaming-optimized and downloading-optimized servers.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection for Chicago. PIA delivers top-notch online protection, keeping your online activities incognito. The provider delivers fast, reliable access to geo-fenced content around much of the globe.
6. PrivateVPN: Mighty-Mite VPN network. While this provider’s global server network is on the small side, it provides fast, well-protected connections to geo-fenced content in the countries where it has servers.
7. Atlas VPN: Unlimited protection for popular devices. Atlas VPN allows users to connect an unlimited number of devices to its servers, making it an excellent way for those with multiple connected devices to protect their online antics from being monitored.

The top seven VPN providers were ranked according to the following features:

• Size of global server network (with servers in the U.S. – bonus for servers in Chicago)
• Strong encryption and privacy protections
• Speedy connections
• Top-notch native app support
• Many customer support options

The seven best VPN services for Chicago are:

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

Chicago residents and visitors would do quite well to investigate the comprehensive VPN services that NordVPN provides.

The VPN service provider boasts an impressive global server network, with nearly 5,600 servers in the United States and 59+ other countries. (The provider has servers located in Chicago, as well as 15+ other U.S. cities.)

The provider’s well-protected connections are protected by government-level 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. Ad blocking and malware protection are also available.

NordVPN follows an independently-audited no-logs policy and accepts cryptocurrency in return for its services. Both help protect your privacy.

The provider runs all server operations directly from RAM, with no information of any kind being written to a physical hard drive. This ensures that all data is totally erased from the servers when rebooted.

The VPN is also in the process of moving its servers from being operated by third-party contractors to a completely self-owned and self-operated model, preventing those third parties from accessing any customer information.

NordVPN connections provide fast speeds, which are easily up to handling high-definition video streams, online gaming, and file sharing. You get unlimited bandwidth and data with your subscription.

Most popular device platforms are supported by native app support, including Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, Linux, macOS (with native M1/M2 support), and Windows. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions and comprehensive router support are available.

Up to six devices can connect at once on a single account.

Around-the-clock customer support options include an always-available chat option, email support, and a searchable support library.

BEST VPN FOR CHICAGOLAND:NordVPN is the top VPN pick for Chicago-based internet users. The provider’s impressive server network delivers reliable content access around the globe via its fast and well-protected connections. The service provides top-notch digital security and privacy protection. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark is the best budget-priced VPN choice on this list, providing comprehensive VPN protection for a low, low price.

An impressive global server network is among the provider’s features, with 3,200+ servers based in the U.S. and 99+ other countries around the globe. (Several servers are located in Chicago and 20+ other U.S. cities.) The provider reliably accesses more than 30 Netflix libraries around the globe.

All Surfshark connections are well-protected by military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and IPv6/DNS leak protection. The provider’s “MultiHop” server feature allows users to route their internet connection through two VPN servers, increasing connection encryption and user anonymity.

The provider’s “no server connection logs ever” policy, as well as a Bitcoin payment option, protects user privacy. The provider also now runs its servers solely from RAM, writing no data to a physical hard drive or SSD. This means all data is completely wiped when a Surfshark server is shut down or rebooted.

Surfshark’s fast, no-data-caps connections provide plenty of bandwidth for any popular internet activity, including streaming, sharing large files, and playing fast-moving games.

Surfshark offers native apps for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and Amazon Fire device platforms. (The company recently announced native app support for Apple’s new M1 Mac lineup.) Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available, as is top-notch router support.

The provider’s unlimited simultaneous connections policy should prove to be appreciated by small business owners, large families, and others in need of VPN protection for multiple devices.

Customer support is available around the clock thanks to Surfshark’s 24/7 chat, a contact form, and a searchable support library.

GREAT VPN OPTION FOR BUDGET-MINDED USERS:Surfshark’s reliable, low-priced VPN service compares well with the more expensive providers on this list. An unlimited simultaneous connections policy is available for most popular devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is admittedly the most expensive provider on this list. However, it also offers some of the best VPN services on this list.

The provider boasts an impressive global server network, with 3,000+ servers stationed in 94+ countries, including the United States (with servers located in Chicago). Those servers deliver reliable access to geo-blocked streaming content in most parts of the world.

All ExpressVPN connections are protected by government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch option, and IP/DNS leak protection. Plus, a split-tunneling option allows users to designate which apps should benefit from the provider’s encrypted tunnel of protection.

ExpressVPN keeps no server logs of any kind and happily accepts Bitcoin as a subscription payment. The provider’s servers are run on its proprietary “TrustedServer” technology, running all server operations directly from RAM, with no data whatsoever being written to a hard drive. This ensures that all data is completely wiped from the server with each reboot.

ExpressVPN had the fastest connection speeds in my most recent rounds of testing. The provider’s blazingly-fast connections easily handle streaming HD video, sharing and downloading files, and playing fast-moving online games. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to be found here.

The provider offers comprehensive app support for Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS (with Apple Silicon support), Chromebook, Linux, and Windows devices. Chrome, Brave, Vivaldi, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions are also available. The provider’s comprehensive router support includes updated firmware, which offers an improved user interface.

As many as five devices can simultaneously connect to ExpressVPN servers on a user’s account.

24/7 customer support includes around-the-clock live chat, a trouble ticket system, email support, and an easy-to-use knowledge base.

RELIABLE CHICAGOLAND VPN:Chicago-based internet users who have a need for a premium VPN service and don’t mind paying a bit more will appreciate the online security and privacy protections and enhancements that ExpressVPN offers. High-speed servers are stationed around most of the globe. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

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4. CyberGhost

Users who are new to the world of VPNs, or who are simply looking for an easy-to-use yet powerful VPN, will appreciate CyberGhost.

With more than 9,000 servers in over 90 countries, including the United States (with more than 100+ servers in Chicago). The provider offers the largest global server network of any VPN on this list. Many of those servers are optimized for streaming and file sharing.

Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, IPv6/DNS leak prevention, and an automatic kill switch all team up to protect your internet activities from monitoring. Ad and tracker blocking is also available, as is the ability to force websites to serve up HTTPS versions of their pages when available.

Recently added new security features include a password manager, antivirus protection, and a utility that scans your device for outdated and vulnerable apps. The provider’s ID Guard feature alerts you if your email address was uncovered in a data breach.

The provider’s no-server-connection-logs policy, along with a private cryptocurrency subscription payment option, combine to protect your internet usage and payment privacy.

CyberGhost’s connection speeds compare well with others on this list, delivering plenty of bandwidth for gaming, HD streaming, and sharing large files. Unlimited bandwidth and data usage are standard features.

The provider’s easy-to-use app selection includes options for Amazon Fire, Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows devices. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions also make the scene, as does excellent router protection.

Up to seven devices can be connected at once on a single account.

Customer support is always available thanks to CyberGhost’s around-the-clock live chat, email support, trouble ticket tracking system, and searchable support library.

BEST FOR ROOKIE VPN USERS:Users who are new to the VPN scene, or those who are looking for easy-to-use VPN protection, will appreciate CyberGhost. The provider’s easy-to-use apps provide fast, well-protected connections to an impressive global server network. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

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5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable, well-protected way to access content around a good portion of the globe.

The PIA global server network includes 3,300+ servers stationed in nearly 85 countries.

PIA’s customers’ online travels are kept incognito, thanks to the provider’s use of banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and kill switch protection. PIA also offers ad, tracker, malware, and dangerous website blocking.

No records of your online antics are ever saved while you’re connected to PIA servers, keeping your usage information private. The provider also accepts Bitcoin as a subscription payment, to protect your payment privacy. (If you use a disposable email address to subscribe, you’ll score additional payment privacy.)

PIA’s native app support includes options for most popular devices, including Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS (with M1/M2 support), Windows, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser protection are also available. The provider’s extensive router compatibility allows you to connect many more devices than the provider’s 10 concurrent device limit allows.

This provider’s connection speeds are far from being the fastest on this list. That said, PIA-provided connections are still well up to handling popular online activities, including HD and 4K video streaming, online gaming, and sharing files. PIA never imposes daily or monthly data caps or throttles your bandwidth.

PIA’s customer support offers a live chat option, a trouble ticket system, and a searchable support library.

RELIABLE VPN PROTECTION:Private Internet Access delivers fast, reliable connections to geo-controlled content in most areas of the globe. PIA provides top-notch online protection, preventing your online activities from being monitored or traced. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN offers quality online security and privacy protection via an admittedly small global server network.

Despite only having 200+ servers spread among 60+ countries, the PrivateVPN network provides reliable access to content in the countries it serves.

This provider’s connection speeds are some of the slowest in this gang of seven. That said, the speeds are more than fast enough for high-definition video streaming and file sharing.

All PrivateVPN-provided connections are protected by banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak prevention, and more. The provider’s custom “Stealth VPN” feature keeps a customer’s VPN use hidden by disguising it as normal browser traffic.

PrivateVPN’s strict no-server logs policy ensures that there are no records to be found of your online travels while connected to the provider’s encrypted VPN servers. The provider’s Bitcoin payment option keeps your subscription information incognito.

App support is available only for the big four device platforms (Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows) and browser extensions are available. Manual setup instructions are available for Linux devices and select routers.

The provider allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per customer.

PrivateVPN’s customer support department offerings include a live chat option, a support request form, and an FAQ support section.

SMALL BUT POWERFUL VPN:PrivateVPN’s global server network is tiny when compared to most of its competitors. However, the provider offers reliable access to content in the areas it serves. The provider’s fast, well-protected connections can easily handle your favorite online pastimes. “Stealth VPN” protection provides additional security and privacy. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

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7. Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN delivers fast, reliable, and well-protected access to content around the globe. The provider has 750+ servers stationed in close to 50 countries worldwide.

Atlas VPN provides well-above-average connection speeds, providing more than enough bandwidth for streaming and other popular online activities. Data caps or bandwidth limitations are nowhere to be found.

The provider uses banking-grade encryption, kill switch protection, IP/DNS leak protection, and other security features to keep its users’ online activities undercover. The provider’s “Safebrowse” feature blocks both online perils and those pesky ads.

Atlas VPN servers run 100% free of user logs and the provider also accepts cryptocurrency as subscription payment.

Native app support options from Atlas VPN include support for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV device platforms. Unfortunately, support for browser extensions and routers is unavailable. However, the provider assures us that those features are in development.

Atlas VPN places no limits on the number of simultaneous devices you can connect to its servers.

Live agent chat is unfortunately limited to paying customers. However, all users have access to email support, a contact form, and a support library.

UNLIMITED CONNECTION PROTECTION:Atlas VPN’s top-notch online security and privacy protections include a “Safebrowse” feature that blocks online dangers and irritating ads. Fast, reliable connections deliver reliable access to content. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Atlas VPN.

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Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Chicago

While online users in the United States enjoy some of the best online freedom in the world, it doesn’t pay to simply grab any VPN and use it. There are several factors that need to be carefully considered.

Here, I’ve listed the most important factors that I considered for this list of VPNs that I recommend for use while living in or visiting Chicago:

• Speed: Connection speed is one of the most important factors for any popular online pastime. Whether it’s streaming video, gaming, or connecting for business, speed is important. All of the VPNs I include on this list scored highly in my most recent round of connection speed testing.
• Server network: A large global server network enables access to geo-blocked content in other nations. Always consider where the provider’s VPN servers are located and how many it has stationed in each country. The more servers, the merrier.
• Value: Carefully consider any VPN provider’s asking price and compare it to the features and functionality it provides. All VPNs on this list offer an excellent return on investment.
• Ease of use: A VPN should not only offer apps for many popular device platforms, but they should also be easy to use. Apps offering a simple user interface offer easy access to internet protection and enhancement. Each VPN I included on my list offers easy-to-use apps.
• Security and privacy: All VPNs should offer banking-grade encryption, an automatic kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection. A strict no-logs policy is a definite requirement to ensure that the VPN isn’t saving any records of your online activities.
• Streaming: Streaming access is something I research for every VPN I include on my lists when applicable. Each VPN on this list offers reliable access to streaming sites such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other popular streamers.

Check out more information about my VPN testing methodology.

Will a Free VPN Work in Chicago?

“Free” is a good price, right? Then why not find a “free” VPN to protect you while in Chicago city limits?

Well, there are plenty of reasons why a “free” VPN is not a good idea for use in Chi-Town or in any other spot around the globe.

Freebie VPN providers do not protect your privacy very well. Many sans-charge VPNs track their users’ online travels, and then sell that information to advertisers and others that are willing to pay for it.

Free VPN service providers have also been caught inserting unwanted tracking cookies and ads into their users’ browsing sessions. And beware, those cookies will keep right on tracking you, even while you’re not connected to the free provider’s servers.

Free VPNs also come up short in the convenience and performance columns.

You may find yourself cooling your virtual heels for a while until you’re given the green light to connect to one of the free provider’s servers. Once you’re finally allowed to connect, you’ll find that you’ve either connected to a server of the provider’s choosing or that you have only a few servers to connect to.

Once you are finally connected, you’ll find that your internet speeds have dropped precipitously and that you’re faced with a daily or monthly data cap. This is because many free VPN providers throttle their users’ connections to preserve bandwidth for paying customers.

Trust me, splurge just a little and you’ll be happier if you pay a few bucks per month for quality VPN service.

What Does a VPN Do For Me?

A VPN is the absolute best way to protect and enhance all of your online antics.

It sends your internet connection through a tunnel of impenetrable encryption, keeping all of your online activities undercover and untraceable.

This is a huge advantage, as plenty of outsiders are looking to track your online travels. Hackers are looking to steal your personal and business information, while your ISP tracks you so they can sell your usage info to advertisers. As for the government, well, they’re just naturally nosy.

A VPN protects you when using unprotected WiFi hotspots, such as those found in public spots like coffee shops, airports, and other places. Most hotspots do not encrypt their wireless signal. While this makes it easier to connect to the public hotspot, it also makes it much easier for hackers to monitor hotspot users’ online activities. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, preventing monitoring.

ISPs have been caught blocking or throttling their customers’ connections for engaging in “unapproved” activities, such as streaming from certain services or sharing files. A VPN’s encryption prevents your ISP from knowing what you’re doing, so they can’t throttle your speeds based on your activities.

A VPN can also temporarily assign a fresh IP address to your device. If the server is located in another area of the world, this makes it look as if you’re connecting from that region, unblocking geo-blocked content in that country.

Conclusion

Chicago is my kind of town, and whenever I’m visiting the city, I use NordVPN as my Virtual Private Network provider.

NordVPN boasts a large global server network, providing fast and well-encrypted connections that provide reliable access to geo-blocked local content around the world. The provider offers excellent native app support for most popular devices, excellent router compatibility, and local IP addresses in Chicago. Always-available customer support is a part of the deal.

For more information or to purchase a subscription, visit the NordVPN website.

Best VPN for Chicago FAQs