Best VPNs With Port Forwarding in 2025 – Enhance Your Online Experience

At a Glance

A VPN with port forwarding allows incoming data to bypass your NAT firewall, by routing it through a specified port on your VPN to a device on your home or business network. Port forwarding allows users to remotely access devices on their network, enables faster P2P file sharing speeds, and allows users to host online games.

While this is a good thing, only a small number of VPN providers offer port forwarding. This is mostly due to security concerns, as improperly configured port forwarding can provide an easy-to-follow path for bad actors and put your network, devices, and data at risk.

In this article, I’ll tell you all about the limited number of top-notch VPN providers that offer port forwarding. I’ll also explain how to safely set up port forwarding and how to use it with torrenting clients, as well as other apps.

What Is Port Forwarding?

WiFi routers and VPNs often come with built-in NAT (Network Address Translation) firewalls. When a device is connected to a WiFi router or VPN server it shares a public IP address. The device also has a unique private IP address.

NAT makes it possible for multiple devices to share a single IP address. Incoming connections use the public IP address of the VPN or WiFi router. Using a local IP address and port number, those connections are then routed to the devices connected to the VPN server or WiFi network.

Outgoing data requests include an attached port number. When a response is sent, the port number is again attached, informing the router or VPN server as to which device to send the response to.

If and when an unsolicited connection request comes in, the NAT rejects the request, as it doesn’t include a designated port number, preventing malicious requests.

NAT firewalls block and discard any unsolicited attempts to initiate a connection to your device. This can be accomplished in software on your device or via your home or office router.

Port forwarding allows incoming connections to reach specified devices and applications on your home or office network. Port forwarding allows connections like this through the NAT firewall on designated ports, making it possible for devices on the web to connect to local devices and services on those devices.

This comes in handy when sharing a file or running a game server, as port forwarding allows you to specify a port to be kept open for connections tagged with that port number. These connections are then forwarded to the device or application you have specified.

WANT TO TRY A TOP VPN FOR PORT FORWARDING RISK-FREE?: All of the top-notch VPN providers mentioned in this article offer a no-risk 30-day money-back guarantee. This means that if you subscribe to one of these VPNs and then find that it isn’t the right one for you, a refund can be quickly obtained, as long as you’re still within the 30-day money-back guarantee period.

Best VPNs With Port Forwarding

This list is short. That’s due to only a few VPN providers on our recommended list offering port forwarding. A bit farther down you’ll see mini-reviews of the VPNs. If you’re in a hurry, here is the TL;DR version of the list.

The best VPNs with port forwarding:

1. ExpressVPN: #1 VPN with port forwarding. While ExpressVPN’s port forwarding capabilities are limited to compatible routers, the provider offers fast connections, a massive global server network, and comprehensive online privacy and security. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.
2. Private Internet Access: Reliable port forwarding-capable VPN. PIA’s comprehensive online security and privacy keep your online travels safe, while also providing reliable access to geo-controlled content in select other countries.
3. PrivateVPN: Small but mighty VPN provider. While this provider offers port forwarding, it comes up a bit lacking in some VPN feature areas. PrivateVPN has the smallest number of servers on this list. That said, it offers reliable access to content in several countries. Comprehensive online security and privacy protection are the order of the day.
4. PureVPN: Reliable port forwarding. PureVPN offers excellent online protections, while also providing a port forwarding option to speed up your P2P file sharing (along with P2P-optimized servers). The provider delivers speedy connections.
5. Proton VPN: Excellent online protection. While ProtonVPN only offers port forwarding on its Windows app, that covers a good sized part of the online community. The provider’s blazingly-fast connections make it an excellent option for file sharing, streaming, and other popular online pastimes.

When I’m considering which VPN providers with port forwarding to recommend to my readers, I considered the following factors:

• Must offer port forwarding (seems logical)
• Global server coverage
• Privacy and security protection
• Connection speeds
• Customer support
• Money-back guarantee duration

You can read more about the criteria I used in the testing methodology section later in this article.

1. ExpressVPN

May 2025

ExpressVPN offers premium VPN service at an admittedly premium price. While you’ll pay a bit more with this provider, it delivers an excellent return on investment.

The provider has an impressive global server network, with 3,000+ servers stationed in more than 100 servers around the globe. The ExpressVPN network provides reliable access to content in most areas of the globe.

ExpressVPN protects all of its customers’ online security by using banking-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection. The provider’s Bitcoin payment option and strict no-server-logs policy protect your payment and usage privacy, respectively.

The provider’s proprietary “TrustedServer” technology allows it to run its servers 100% from RAM, writing no data of any kind to a permanent storage device. This feature ensures that all information is automatically wiped every time the server is rebooted or powered down.

ExpressVPN’s super-speedy connections provide plenty of bandwidth for enjoyable streaming, gaming, and file sharing. Data caps or bandwidth restrictions are never a worry when using this provider.

ExpressVPN offers top-notch device support, offering app options for macOS, Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, Apple TV (iOS 17 or later), Android TV, Amazon Fire, and ChromeOS device platforms. Browser extensions are available for the Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser platforms.

The provider also offers support for select routers, including customized firmware for some routers. Users can set up port forwarding on compatible routers.

Users can make up to eight simultaneous connections to the provider’s servers.

ExpressVPN’s customer support options include 24/7 live agent chat, email support, a trouble ticket system, and a searchable support library.

You can try ExpressVPN’s service without risk for 30 days.

PREMIUM VPN WITH PORT FORWARDING:ExpressVPN’s subscription prices are the highest on this list. However, the provider delivers fast connections, reliable access to geo-fenced content around the globe, and support for popular connected devices, as well as port forwarding on select routers. The provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

2. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) provides online protection for most popular device platforms, providing port forwarding in their apps. PIA’s easy-to-understand instructions walk you through enabling port forwarding in the PIA app.

The provider’s large global server network includes 3,300+ servers stationed in over 90 countries, providing access to plenty of geo-fenced content around the globe.

All PIA-provided connections are protected by banking-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention. The provider also offers ad, tracker, malware, and malicious website blocking.

All PIA servers are run free of user logs, so there is no evidence left behind connected to your online travels. A Bitcoin subscription payment option keeps your payment information private.

PIA has joined several other VPN providers in running its servers 100% from RAM, writing no data of any kind to a physical storage device. This means all data is wiped completely when the provider’s servers are rebooted or powered down.

This provider’s connection speeds, while definitely not the fastest in the VPN industry, can easily handle most popular online activities. PIA never ruins a good time by imposing data caps or bandwidth throttling.

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 compatible with select routers.

There is no limit on the number of devices that can be simultaneously connected to PIA’s servers by a single user.

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

PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

RELIABLE VPN WITH PORT FORWARDING:PIA’s easy to use port forwarding feature is built-in to the provider’s easy-to-use apps. PIA’s comprehensive online security and privacy protections keep your online activities undercover. The VPN also provides reliable access to geo-controlled content for an unlimited number of your connected devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

3. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN makes it easy to set up port forwarding in its apps. Simply start the PrivateVPN app, select and connect to a server, and open the app’s advanced view. Take note of the random port number that’s displayed and enter that number into the torrenting client or other application you’re using port forwarding for.

PrivateVPN has the lowest server count (200+) on this list. However, the provider’s servers are well-distributed among 63+ countries, providing reliable access to content in the countries where the provider has servers.

The provider’s connection speeds are also the slowest on this list, although it can easily handle popular online activities. Plus, PrivateVPN never imposes data caps or throttles your bandwidth.

PrivateVPN keeps its users’ online activities incognito by using banking-grade encryption, kill switch protection, and IP/DNS leak prevention. The provider’s “Stealth VPN” feature hides its customers’ VPN usage by disguising it as normal browser activity.

The provider’s strict no-server logs policy ensures that no records are kept of your online activities. Plus, the provider’s cryptocurrency payment option keeps your payment information undercover.

PrivateVPN’s native app support includes options for Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows device platforms. Browser extensions are not available, although some routers can be manually configured to work with the provider.

Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices to PrivateVPN’s servers.

Support options include agent chat, a support request form, and an FAQ page.

A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

PORT FORWARDED VPN PROTECTION:PrivateVPN offers easy-to-use port forwarding in its apps. The provider’s online security and privacy features, including a “Stealth VPN” feature, keep your VPN usage undercover. While PrivateVPN’s server numbers could stand an increase, it does a good job of spreading what it has around 63+ countries. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

4. PureVPN

PureVPN offers port forwarding, while also allowing torrenting and providing P2P-optimized servers. You’ll need to log in to the PureVPN website to enable port forwarding, but otherwise it works the same as most VPNs.

PureVPN’s global server network is made up of 6,000+ servers, located in 80+ locations in 65+ countries. This provides reliable access to geo-controlled content around a good bit of the globe.

The provider’s connection speeds are blazingly fast, easily handling any online activities. PureVPN never inflicts data caps or bandwidth throttling on its customers.

PureVPN protects its users’ connections with banking-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection.

The provider follows a strict no-logs policy on its VPN servers, which ensures that no records are ever kept of your online activities. Meanwhile, the provider’s cryptocurrency payment option keeps your payment information private (no refunds when paying with crypto, unfortunately).

PureVPN via apps is available for Chromebook, Windows, Mac, Android, Android TV, Apple TV (tvOS 17 or later), iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Browser extensions are also available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave. It’s possible to manually configure the provider to work with some WiFi routers.

Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices to PureVPN’s servers.

Support options include support agent chat, email, and a searchable support database.

A 31-day money-back guarantee is available.

VPN PROTECTION THAT PLAYS IT (PORT) FORWARD:PureVPN offers port forwarding alongside its online security and privacy offerings. While PureVPN’s server could be better, it does a good job of providing access to geo-fenced content. Offers a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Read my full review of PureVPN.

5. Proton VPN

Proton VPN offers port forwarding, but only on its Windows app. To turn on port forwarding, go to the settings page, and then the advanced tab. Once you toggle port forwarding on, the active port number will be displayed in the main app window.

Proton VPN’s global server network is made up of 4,600+ servers, located in 90+ countries, providing excellent access to content around the globe.

The provider’s connection speeds are quite impressive, meaning it will easily handle your favorite online activities. Proton VPN spoils a good time with data caps or bandwidth throttling.

Proton VPN uses banking-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection to keep your online activities incognito. The VPN also offers Secure Core servers to double up on protection, as well as an ad and tracker blocker.

The provider follows a strict no-logs policy on its servers, ensuring that no records are ever kept of your online activities. The provider’s cryptocurrency payment option keeps your payment information undercover.

Proton VPN via apps is available for Windows, Chromebook, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, or Android TV. You can also find Chrome and Firefox extensions or configure a connection on compatible WiFi routers.

Users can simultaneously connect up to 10 devices to Proton VPN’s servers.

Support options include email and a searchable support database.

A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

(PORT) FORWARD THINKING VPN PROVIDER:Proton VPN offers port forwarding, although it is limited to Windows. The provider offers top-notch online security and privacy offerings. The provider’s large global server network provides access to geo-fenced content. Offers a 31-day money-back guarantee.

Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Port Forwarding

While this article focuses on VPNs with port forwarding, there are several other features that you need to carefully consider before selecting a VPN provider.

Here are some of the features I researched when creating this list of VPNs that offer port forwarding.

• Connection speeds: On the internet, a fast connection is your friend. The VPNs I include on my list provide more than enough bandwidth for your favorite online activities.
• Server network: Look for a VPN’s global server network with servers in as many countries as possible. Also, look for providers with multiple servers in each country, which helps prevent any single server from being hit with too many users at once.
• Value: To determine a VPN provider’s true value, compare its asking price to the features it offers. The VPNs I include on my lists all offer excellent value.
• Ease of use: A VPN should support popular connected devices. The VPNs on this list offer intuitive apps for most popular devices.
• Security and privacy: A VPN should keep your online activities undercover with banking-level encryption, a kill switch, and DNS/IP leak protection at the very least. A strict no-logs policy is also a must. The VPNs on my lists offer these protective measures and more.
• Streaming: Streaming video is one of the most popular online activities today. The VPNs I included on this list offer access to several streaming services, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Spotify, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services.

The features above are just some of what I research when conducting my data-driven VPN testing. This methodology provides a full understanding of the VPN providers and their services, allowing me to recommend VPNs that are a good fit for my readers’ needs.

What Are the Benefits and Dangers of Port Forwarding?

Benefits of Port Forwarding

Port forwarding on a router has several useful functions, including:

• Remote access to your computer or gaming console
• Hosting online games
• Remote access to home media servers, security cameras, or DVRs

Meanwhile, you can use port forwarding on a VPN for:

• Improved torrent file-sharing speeds
• The ability to seed torrents
• Hosting online games

When you share files via BitTorrent (P2P file sharing), you are connected to a group of other users called a “swarm.” You are downloading and sharing files with this swarm. Unfortunately, a NAT firewall will block swarm connections, meaning your download and upload speeds may not be as fast as they should be. A NAT firewall can even prevent you from uploading a file to other members of the swarm, which is a file-sharing no-no.

Port forwarding allows users to bypass these limitations by creating exceptions. If you’re not interested in being polite about your file sharing and are only looking to download files, you can do so without port forwarding. It is also safer, as any time you leave a port open, you are running a risk.

Risks of Port Forwarding

Since port forwarding allows unsolicited connections to pass through your router or VPN firewall, it carries with it several risks. This is why a good number of VPNs do not offer port forwarding.

The risks of port forwarding can vary, and depend on the reasons you’re port forwarding and the applications that are listening to the open ports.

Let’s say you set up port forwarding on your router to allow yourself or someone else to have remote access to your computer. You should only leave the port open for only as long as you need that remote access. Otherwise, bad actors could use that open port to take over your computer.

However, if you set up port forwarding and then use a torrenting app to listen to that port for file sharing, the amount of damage a bad actor can do is limited. However, you will still want to enable your computer’s built-in firewall and set a password to log in.

Using a VPN that allows port forwarding can leave you open to port fail attacks. These attacks allow hackers to expose the actual IP addresses of other users. While a VPN could set up differing incoming and outgoing IP addresses on their servers, not many do so.

Before using any VPN with port forwarding, visit the VPN provider’s website and pour through their port forwarding-related documentation to ensure they protect against port fail attacks.

Can I Use a Free VPN for Port Forwarding?

No “free” VPN provider I’ve seen offers port forwarding. This is only one of the many reasons I do not recommend using a “free” VPN.

If you’re using a free VPN, you may be forced to wait until a free VPN server slot becomes available. Plus, you may not be allowed to connect to a server of your choice or will have a severely limited selection of servers to choose from.

You’ll also likely find that your VPN usage will be severely limited by monthly or daily data caps or the free VPN may even throttle your connection bandwidth. Freebie VPN providers will do this to preserve bandwidth for their paying customers. Neither of these are copacetic for Bittorrenting, which is one of the reasons users need a VPN with port forwarding.

Your privacy is at risk when using a free VPN. Free providers will pay the bills by logging their users’ online activities, and then selling that information to anyone willing to pay for it. Some free VPN providers have been caught inserting unwanted ads and tracking cookies into their users’ browser sessions.

As you can see, a free VPN is not even worth the effort it will take for you to search for one on Google.

How to Use a VPN With Port Forwarding

Using a VPN or a VPN’s port forwarding feature is easier to do than you likely believe it is.

Here’s how to use a VPN with port forwarding:

1. Sign up with a VPN provider that offers port forwarding. My top pick is ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the latest version of the provider’s VPN app(s) on your device(s).
3. Start the app and connect to a VPN server.
4. This can vary from provider-to-provider, but the VPN’s port forwarding feature can usually be found in the app’s settings. Check with your VPN provider for specific instructions on how to enable port forwarding.
5. Turn port forwarding on and configure it to your needs.
6. Go into the settings of each app you want to use with port forwarding to enter the configured port number. You will now be able to receive incoming unsolicited requests via the chosen port.

In Closing

While there isn’t exactly a multitude of VPN providers offering port forwarding, there are several reliable providers that do offer the feature. When using port forwarding, make sure you have port forwarding set up properly on your VPN app, as not having port forwarding properly configured can result in bad actors accessing your device and/or network.

My top-recommended VPN with port forwarding is ExpressVPN. It not only offers port forwarding, but it also provides comprehensive online security and privacy for most popular connected devices.

For more information, visit the ExpressVPN website.

VPNs With Port Forwarding: FAQs

Is It Safe to Use a VPN Port Forwarding?

While port forwarding does have potential security risks, it can be made safer if you take the necessary precautions to secure your device or router, including strong passwords and keeping your device’s firmware/operating system and applications updated. In addition, limit the number of ports you leave open and be careful about who you share details about your port forwarding with.

Will VPN Port Forwarding Slow My Connection?

No, a quality VPN with port forwarding should not slow your connection. Actually, it will most likely increase your P2P file sharing speeds. This is because it will allow connections that would normally be blocked by the VPN’s NAT firewall.