ZDNet updates Linux VPN guide; Private Internet Access named top pick

ZDNet has overhauled its guide to the best Linux VPNs in a January 2026 update and names Private Internet Access (PIA) as its top choice for Linux users. According to the guide, PIA offers open-source GUI apps for distributions including Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, Fedora and Arch, while also supporting CLI setups such as OpenVPN and network manager.

The review highlights features on Linux including AES‑128 and AES‑256 encryption options, split tunneling, a kill switch, IPv6 leak protection, and unlimited simultaneous connections. ZDNet reported PIA’s server network covers 91 countries, noted middling speeds on Linux (no more than a 15% drop on nearby servers with WireGuard or OpenVPN) and flagged its US headquarters as a potential privacy concern for some users.

The guide lists promotional pricing examples, such as $2.03 per month on a three‑year plan. The guide also recommends Mullvad, NordVPN, IVPN and Proton VPN for different Linux priorities.

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Tech, Private Internet Access, Linux, Mullvad, Nordvpn, Ivpn