Most “VPN for browser” products fall into two models: (1) a standalone extension that routes browser traffic through a VPN/proxy layer, or (2) a browser extension that controls a desktop VPN app and depends on that app for the encrypted tunnel. This difference matters because the second model can protect more than just the browser, while the first model is usually limited to the browser profile where it’s installed.
TOP-5 best VPNs for browser (extensions)
1) Proton VPN (Chrome/Firefox)
Proton states that all Proton VPN apps are open source and audited, and it explicitly includes “Browser” in the list of open-source code links. This is a strong transparency signal if your priority is verifying how the client handles security and data.
2) NordVPN (Chrome/Firefox/Edge)
Nord provides guidance on stopping WebRTC leaks and indicates that its browser extension has a setting to block WebRTC leaks. For browser-only usage, built-in WebRTC leak controls are a practical feature because WebRTC can sometimes reveal IP-related data outside the normal browsing path.
3) Surfshark (Chrome)
Surfshark’s Chrome extension marketing highlights privacy-oriented browsing features, and Surfshark also publishes general guidance on WebRTC leak testing/prevention for users. In real-world use, this matters because leak prevention is a common failure point when people assume “VPN on = fully hidden.”
4) ExpressVPN (Chrome/Firefox)
ExpressVPN documents that its browser extension is used as part of its setup and includes privacy features such as spoofing HTML5 location and HTTPS-enforcing behavior. It’s a good fit if you want an extension that integrates tightly with a full VPN client rather than acting as a simple proxy.
5) Windscribe (Chrome)
Windscribe’s Chrome Web Store listing describes features beyond basic IP masking, including WebRTC/geolocation/timezone spoofing, link sanitizing, and anti-fingerprinting capabilities (as described by the developer listing). It also describes a free plan with a monthly data cap tied to email confirmation (as stated in the listing).
| VPN (browser option) | Extension model | Supported browsers (per vendor docs) | WebRTC leak protection | Location/geo spoofing | HTTPS enforcement | Extra privacy features | Transparency / assurance notes | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN | Standalone browser extension (no desktop app required) | Chrome/Chromium-based + Firefox (per Proton extension availability/docs) | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Proton sources here | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Proton sources here | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Proton sources here | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Proton sources here | Proton states all Proton VPN apps are open source and audited (incl. “Browser”). | Users who want an extension that can work without installing the full VPN app and value open-source/audit claims. |
| NordVPN | Browser proxy extension (works alongside NordVPN app for some features) | Chrome/Firefox/Edge | Explicit setting to block WebRTC leaks in extension settings. | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Nord sources here | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Nord sources here | Firefox listing mentions ad/malicious site blocking via Threat Protection Lite. | WebRTC leak blocking is documented in official Nord support article. | People who want simple WebRTC leak blocking and basic browser threat blocking. |
| Surfshark | Browser extension | Chrome (official Surfshark download page) | Surfshark advertises WebRTC leak protection in its extension messaging. | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Surfshark sources here | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Surfshark sources here | Surfshark markets CleanWeb (ad/tracker blocking feature). | WebRTC leak education/testing is covered on Surfshark site. | Users who want a simple Chrome extension plus built-in ad/tracker blocking features. |
| ExpressVPN | Extension remotely controls the desktop VPN app (not standalone) | Chrome/Firefox/Edge/Brave/Vivaldi | Optional “Block WebRTC” in extension Privacy & Security settings. | “Spoof your location” (HTML5 geolocation) supported. | Ensures HTTPS versions when available (documented by ExpressVPN). | Tight browser-to-app control (connect/disconnect, location switch via extension). | Requires ExpressVPN app (Windows/Mac/Linux) with minimum versions listed by ExpressVPN. | Users who want browser convenience on top of full-device VPN protection. |
| Windscribe | Extension listed as proxy + ad blocker | Chrome (Chrome Web Store listing) | Listing claims WebRTC spoofing/protection. | Listing claims geolocation spoofing. | Not explicitly confirmed in the cited Windscribe source here | Listing claims anti-fingerprinting, link tracking removal, and ad blocking. | Features and limits are stated directly in the Chrome Web Store listing (publisher: Windscribe). | Users who want many browser-privacy toggles in one extension (ad block + anti-tracking + spoofing). |
Technical guide (setup + safe configuration)
- Install only from official sources (Chrome Web Store / Firefox Add-ons) and verify the publisher name and permission list.
Mozilla’s add-on page format shows that VPN extensions can request powerful permissions like controlling proxy settings and accessing data for all websites, which is normal for this category but should be consciously accepted. - Decide whether you need “extension-only” or “app + extension.”
If you want system-wide coverage, choose a provider whose extension works with a desktop client (common for some vendors) so all traffic is protected, not just browser tabs. - Enable leak-mitigation features where available (especially WebRTC).
Nord explicitly documents WebRTC leak blocking through extension settings, and Windscribe’s listing also claims WebRTC-related protections/spoofing. If your provider doesn’t offer this, you may need separate browser settings/extensions to reduce leak risk. - Use split rules (per-site allow/deny) when offered.
Mozilla VPN Extension describes per-website behavior like turning off VPN for specific sites and setting different locations for different websites, which is useful for banking sites, corporate portals, or services that block VPNs.
Rules of use (practical “do’s and don’ts”)
- Do treat a browser VPN as one layer: combine it with HTTPS, updated browser versions, and good account security. A VPN helps with network-level privacy, but it doesn’t automatically stop tracking by cookies/fingerprinting.
- Do not assume “VPN extension = anonymity”: sites can still identify you via logins, browser fingerprinting, and account activity, even if your IP changes.
- Do use official documentation for features like location spoofing or HTTPS enforcement, because these behaviors vary by provider and can affect site functionality.
Technical limitations (what can still go wrong)
Browser-only scope: a proxy/VPN extension typically affects only that browser’s traffic, not other applications on your device. If you need messengers or other apps protected, you generally need a full VPN client.
Leak surfaces: WebRTC is a known source of IP-related leakage risks, so choosing an extension with explicit WebRTC controls reduces common misconfiguration issues. Some extensions also claim to spoof geolocation/timezone to reduce mismatch signals, but this is not a guarantee against tracking.
Permission risk: because VPN extensions need access to proxy settings and “data for all websites,” a malicious or compromised extension can be high-impact; install only reputable vendors and keep extensions minimal.
Legal limitations (jurisdiction, compliance, acceptable use)
Jurisdiction matters: Proton emphasizes Switzerland and ties its trust model to audits and open-source transparency, which is relevant for users evaluating legal exposure and provider accountability. Still, any provider may be subject to lawful requests under its local laws, so you should treat marketing claims carefully and minimize personal data in your account where possible.
Service terms and blocking: many streaming platforms, banks, and corporate systems may restrict VPN/proxy usage, so plan for per-site bypass rules (split behavior) when available.
Local restrictions: in some countries, VPN usage or certain circumvention behavior may be restricted or regulated; you are responsible for complying with local laws and a site’s terms of service.
User data security (what to evaluate)
- Transparency signals: open-source clients and independent audits reduce the “black box” risk; Proton explicitly positions its open-source and audit program as a security and accountability measure. This can help users assess how encryption and data handling are implemented.
- Telemetry/diagnostics controls: Mozilla’s support documentation states Mozilla VPN collects limited data (e.g., anonymized usage statistics and diagnostics) and provides an opt-out that also deletes historical information. If you’re privacy-sensitive, choose providers that clearly document what’s collected and offer opt-outs.
- Extension store disclosures: store listings often include permissions, privacy policy links, and update history—review them before installing and after major updates.