5 Best Free VPNs for Belgium in 2024: Safe, Secure & Reliable VPNs
In this internet age, people are starting to turn to Virtual Private Networks to protect themselves online and bypass geo-restrictions. If you’re one of such people and are looking for the best VPNs for Belgium, then you have found the right article.
There are different reasons why you may need a VPN for Belgium. First, if you reside in Belgium, a VPN can help you connect to other locations and access websites that are inaccessible from Belgium. Also, you may be a Belgian traveling abroad and are looking for a way to stay connected to local Belgian content. Then, it is also quite possible that you’re a foreigner looking to access content restricted to Belgium or you’re traveling to Belgium and would like to know which VPNs are best for the country. A VPN can help in all these cases and protects you while at it.
This article looks at the best free VPN service providers that will bypass geo-restrictions in Belgium and keep you safe at the same time.
Best Risk-Free VPNs for Belgium
You may be curious at what the term “risk-free” means. Simply put, a risk-free VPN is one that provides a money-back guarantee on its subscription plans, thus allowing you to use it without any risk or fear of losing your money. An interesting idea with such VPNs is that you could subscribe for them and request your money back within the given window. This means that you get to use the VPN for free during this period.
In this section, we will examine the best risk-free VPNs for Belgium, highlighting the features of each provider.
ExpressVPN
Features
- Number of servers: More than 3,000
- Speeds: Unlimited
- Server locations: 160 in 105 countries
- Maximum devices supported: 5
- 24 live chat: Yes
- 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Fastest VPN out there
- Strict no logs policy
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Few discounts
ExpressVPN has been a leader in the VPN industry for years. It has 3000 plus servers based in 160 separate locations in 94 countries. Belgium is one of those countries, and it has a reasonable amount of servers spread across the country. You can easily watch Belgian content on VRT, RTBF, and VTM as ExpressVPN makes a mockery of geo-restrictions.
You will only experience breakneck speed with ExpressVPN. Performance has never been a problem for this VPN. It supports streaming in FHD and UHD. Also, all its servers promote P2P sharing. Gamers will be glad to know it can comfortably unblock game servers in several locations, including Belgium.
Security remains a vital segment of any VPN, and ExpressVPN gives you the best protection with 256-bit encryption. AES-256, combined with SHA-512 authentication and a 4096-bit RSA key, prevents any malicious hacker from having a good day with your data. It supports OpenVPN and other VPN protocols along with its Lightway protocol. You also have IP leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, kill switch, split tunneling, and Tor over VPN as security features.
The British Virgin Islands is home to the headquarters of ExpressVPN. There are no invasive laws that require it to store user data. A No-Log Policy is vital to users, and this VPN service provider has indeed adhered to its own. It also uses TrustedSec technology to keep servers from using persistent storage options. ExpressVPN has previously called on security firm Cure3 to audit its security structure to show transparency. This is one of the many reasons why users trust ExpressVPN with their data.
iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, Routers, Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are some popular platforms that can host ExpressVPN’s applications and extensions. Its monthly plan doesn’t come at a low price, as it offers the best you can get. Subscribing for 12 months or six months at once will see the price significantly reduce. You only have five parallel connections per subscription account. Support is always available with a 24/7 team and website guides to help you.
- Pros: Fastest VPN out there; Strict no logs policy; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $6.67
NordVPN
Features
- Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: 6
- Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
- Servers: 5342 in 58 countries
Pros/Cons
- Lots of pricing options
- Netflix support kept up to date
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Slow app
NordVPN is another strong industry leader that is looking to knock ExpressVPN off the top spot. Over 5400 of its servers reside in 59 countries. There are more than 50 servers in Belgium, enough to access your favorite Belgian channels. You are not left out from streaming international programs with Netflix, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, among popular platforms you can access.
When it comes to speed, NordVPN is a top rival with ExpressVPN. Nearly every VPN provider’s speed takes a dip when you connect to their network, but some speed tests show NordVPN’s speed increases in some cases. It is important to note that long distances will always affect speed because of the time data packets take to make a roundtrip. All servers permit P2P file-sharing so that you can use this VPN for any torrent activity.
Encrypting data is a way to keep it safe, and NordVPN uses the most robust encryption cipher available to keep your data safe. It prevents malware and ads with its CyberSec protection. You have the option of using NordLynx, a proprietary VPN protocol, as well as OpenVPN and IKEv2. Other security features include but are not limited to DoubleVPN, Onion over VPN, leak protection, and obfuscated servers.
Panama, where there are no forceful data retention laws, is NordVPN’s home. Its stern No-Log Policy gives no chance for the permanent logging of users’ connection history. NordVPN has invited audit companies to audit its system, showing commitment to ensuring privacy and transparency.
NordVPN supports multiple devices, including iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, and Linux devices. Chrome and Firefox also have extensions that you can utilize. You have a 24/7 support team ready to answer questions and solve any problems you encounter. NordVPN offers better discounts than ExpressVPN and can go as low as $3.71 per month. It also allows six simultaneous device connections on each account and a 30-day refund policy.
- Pros: Lots of pricing options; Netflix support kept up to date; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest price: $3.71
Best Completely-Free VPNs for Belgium
Below, we will dive into the best VPNs that allow to use their services without making a commitment first. These VPNs include:
Surfshark
Features
- Free trial? Yes
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
- Ad blocking? Yes
- Servers: 1000+ in 61 countries
Pros/Cons
- No footprints
- Allows torrenting
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Not the fastest
Surfshark is the first free VPN for Belgium we shall consider. Although many know this provider as offering budget-friendly prices, not a lot of people are aware that it offers a 7-day free trial for Android and iOS users. This means that you can use the VPN for free within the stipulated period on any of these platforms.
After three years in the industry, Surfshark continues to show why its rise was no mistake. This VPN is feature-rich and serves its users an irresistible offer with its unlimited connections. Surfshark’s over 3000 servers run in 65 countries. A single server lies in Belgium. In spite of that number, you can expect proper delivery of its service.
Its streaming capabilities include unblocking several foreign and Belgian content like Telenet, Stievie, Netflix, HBO GO, and VTM. Due to wanting an enjoyable experience, you may dream of streaming in Full HD or Ultra HD. Surfshark is the answer to that dream, as you can depend on its speed to give you an unforgettable experience. You will also get fast torrenting as servers allow P2P file-sharing.
Usually, the first thing on any potential VPN user’s mind is security. Surfshark is here to keep your mind calm. The highly appraised AES-256 encryption takes care of data security. Depending on your device, you have the option to use secure protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and Shadowsocks. You can also use a whitelister, leak protection, kill switch, Double VPN, and CleanWeb.
Like ExpressVPN, Surfshark’s operations base is in the British Virgin Islands, outside the territory of countries under surveillance-sharing pacts. Its No-Log Policy, a warrant canary, cryptocurrency payment option, Camouflage Mode, and NoBorders Mode all work together to guarantee your anonymity remains true. Surfshark’s browser extensions have been audited by Cure53 to show its commitment to users’ safety.
Surfshark’s device and browser support comprise macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and Fire TV. Its SmartDNS feature allows you to use it on other devices. You get unlimited simultaneous connections for every user account. Also, its support team is very accessible.
- Pros: No footprints; Allows torrenting; 256-bit AES encryption;
- Lowest Price: $2.49
ProtonVPN
Features
- P2P support? Yes
- 30-day money-back guarantee? Yes
- Country of origin? Switzerland
- Servers: 600+ in over 40 countries
- Simultaneous devices: 5
Pros/Cons
- Professional support
- Modern interface and apps
- AES-256 encryption
- Lesser known provider
ProtonVPN is another completely free VPN for Belgium. If you’re within Belgium and are looking for a VPN to stay protected or to connect to other locations, then this provider makes a decent choice. However, you should know that you cannot access Belgium-specific content on ProtonVPN’s free version as it only supports three countries: United States, Japan, and the Netherlands.
ProtonVPN is quite useful for bypassing other countries’ geo-restrictions while in Belgium. You can stream Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu comfortably. When it comes to speed, ProtonVPN is not precisely a champion. Several speed tests show it is slightly above average, and you might encounter some lagging and buffering. Enjoying the service will require you to find the fastest server closest to you, as distance can be a deciding factor in the rate you get.
Encryption, key exchange, and authentication are integral parts of data protection. ProtonVPN uses AES-256 encryption, a 4096-bit RSA, and SHA384 to ensure ultimate safety. You also have Secure Core servers, NetShield, perfect forward secrecy, DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and Tor over VPN as features that add to your network’s security.
Switzerland has a longstanding reputation for being a country that actively supports privacy. ProtonVPN, with that knowledge, has its headquarters situated in Geneva. The 14 Eyes Alliance, a joint surveillance-sharing agreement, has no authority in Switzerland, leaving no chance for them to request ProtonVPN’s users’ data. Its genuine No-Log Policy also enforces no storage of users’ connection data. Open-source applications and independent audits are a part of ProtonVPN’s path to supreme privacy.
Its applications are usable on Windows, macOS, Android, ChromeOS Linux, iOS, and Routers. Should you enjoy the experience on ProtonVPN’s free plans and want to take things up a notch, then you would be thrilled to know that its paid plans are cheaper than the average VPN. What’s more? It has a 30-day cash-back guarantee that you can take advantage of.
- Pros: Professional support; Modern interface and apps; AES-256 encryption;
- Lowest price: €4
Hideme
Features
- Number of servers: 2000+
- Server locations: 75 locations
- Maximum devices supported: 10
- 24 live chat: Yes
- 30 day money back guarantee: Yes
Pros/Cons
- Has free option
- No log policy
- Secure connection
- Not very cheap
Like ProtonVPN, Hide.me is another decent free VPN you can use while in Belgium. With a great server network in North America and Europe, you will have no issues accessing any of its almost 2000 servers worldwide. Netflix, HBO Now, and Disney+ are just a few of the many services with geo-restrictions that it can bypass. It also has a good number of servers that support torrenting without complications.
You will know Hide.me’s stand on collecting unnecessary logs if you read its privacy policy. Operating from Malaysia also helps it to stay true to that policy and others. Hide.me gives you a pool of VPN protocols to use, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, Softether, WireGuard, and SSTP. Other notable mentions in its line of defense against malicious entities are 256-bit encryption, Double VPN, Stealth Guard, a Kill Switch, and a Split Tunneling feature.
Hide.me has native applications for Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS. It also supports other platforms like Linux, Chrome, Firefox, routers, and Amazon Fire TV. Hide.me is a completely free VPN but it also doubles as a risk-free VPN. So, if you want to access its full features, you can take advantage of its 30-day refund policy and use the VPN as much as you’d like within the given window.
- Pros: Has free option; No log policy; Secure connection;
- Lowest price: €4.99
What To Consider in Getting a VPN for Belgium
Every new VPN user always goes through the dilemma of choosing a VPN. Several things will cross your mind, especially when your money is involved. Let’s make that choice easier for you and look at some essential features in a VPN for Belgium.
1. Security and Privacy
There is no way security or privacy will not influence your decision. Except you don’t care what happens to your data. The security features of a VPN will determine the safety of your data. Is it using the most robust encryption? Does it have secure VPN protocols? Does it have enough security features to ensure it has several layers of protection? These are some of the questions you should find answers to if you’re looking to use a VPN for Belgium.
Privacy and security usually go hand in hand. The privacy policy will determine the safety of your anonymity. It is also essential to know that the location of the VPN service provider can influence your privacy.
2. Server Coverage and Location
The number of servers in Belgium is also vital. VPNs with more servers in Belgium are more likely to give you better performance and unblocking capabilities than VPNs with fewer servers. Although servers in other European countries might still be able to access Belgian content, it is advisable to use a VPN with a significant presence in Belgium. Another thing to note is that the number of servers can influence your speed because fewer servers can lead to congestion on individual servers.
3. Speed
Speed is crucial to users that stream and gamers. Fast servers in Belgium allow you to watch TVM, Netflix, and other shows without lags. It is one of the reasons why ExpressVPN and NordVPN have so many users relying on them.
4. Device Compatibility
It is of no use if a VPN has all the features you need and does not work with the device you use. Fortunately, for most people, this is not a problem. Most VPN service providers offer cross-platform compatibility to cater to a device you’re likely to have. There is the possibility that different applications have different features. For example, the Android app of a VPN might support a protocol that the iOS app doesn’t support.
How To Set Up a VPN for Belgium
Since many VPNs are cross-platform compatible, including the VPNs above, there are various ways to set up a VPN for Belgium. However, we are only going to discuss the least technical way, which is using the VPN service provider’s custom application to connect to a server in Belgium. Follow the instructions below to set up a VPN for Belgium.
1. The first thing you need to do is choose a VPN service provider. Next, go to the service provider’s website and create an account.
2. Then, you need to select a subscription plan you can afford. For free VPNs, you don’t need to subscribe since you’re not paying for the service. It only becomes necessary if you want to upgrade to a paid service.
3. Next, you need to download the VPN application on your device. You can check the VPN service provider’s website for manual installation instructions if there is no custom application for your operating system.
4. After downloading the application, install and open it.
5. Enter your account credentials and select a server in Belgium.
6. Now, you have a VPN server with a Belgian IP protecting your connection. To verify the connection is active, you can visit Netflix and see if you have access to Belgian Netflix.
Frequently Asked Questions About VPNs for Belgium
Is it legal to use a free VPN in Belgium?
Yes, it is legal to use a VPN (free or paid) in Belgium. Belgium is one of the countries where its constitution supports internet freedom; residents in Belgium have unrestricted access to the internet. However, committing a crime with a VPN is illegal and will give the authorities every right to come after the offender. That being said, the actions that are illegal will not suddenly become legal because you’re using a VPN.
What is the best free VPN for Belgium?
When we talk about risk-free VPNs, ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN for Belgium. This is primarily due to its years of experience in delivering outstanding service to its users. However, when it comes to completely free VPNs, Surfshark is the best. Its free trial period gives you access to its entire server network, including those in Belgium.
What is the fastest free VPN for Belgium?
NordVPN is the fastest risk-free VPN for Belgium. This is primarily due to its sophisticated infrastructure and NordLynx protocol. The WireGuard-based NordLynx is currently the fastest protocol among secure VPN protocols. It beats other VPN protocols on several speed tests, including ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. However, in terms of completely free VPNs, Surfshark comes out on top.
How many devices can I use my VPN for Belgium on?
It depends on the VPN service provider. Most free VPNs usually allow only a single VPN connection per user; you cannot use them on more than one device. In some cases, you will have more than that. On the other hand, most paid VPNs allow at least five simultaneous VPN connections. Additionally, you can find one that allows unlimited connections. For example, Surfshark does not put a limit on the number of simultaneous VPN connections a user can use.
Conclusion
Access to Belgian content from outside the country should be comfortable, and these VPN providers offer that and more. In this article, we have shown you the best VPN service providers to use for Belgium. We have also laid out a few things that can guide you in making a concrete choice in selecting a VPN for Belgium. The ball is always in your court.