7 Best VPN Services for Startups (2026)
We compared 7 top tools for this category. NordLayer is our #1 overall recommendation, boasting a 4.8/5 rating and excelling at scalable security. If you are looking for an alternative specifically for cloud infrastructure, Perimeter 81 is a highly capable runner-up.
NordLayer
Grows with your startup, offering scalable cloud-based network security and single sign-on (SSO).
Runner Ups
Perimeter 81
Cloud infrastructureIdeal for tech startups needing to secure AWS or GCP instances with granular access controls.
- Network visualization
- Custom gateway nodes
- HIPAA/SOC2 compliance
- Expensive for pre-seed
- Complex UI
Starting at
$8.00 per user
GoodAccess
Small dev teamsA simplified business VPN that provides startups with a static IP and cloud firewall in minutes.
- Fixed IP included
- No hardware needed
- Global gateway locations
- Limited features on Basic
- Smaller network
Starting at
$5.00 per user
Surfshark
Cost-efficiencyBudget-friendly option for early-stage startups needing to protect multiple devices at once.
- Unlimited user logins
- Includes Antivirus
- Low entry cost
- Not a 'true' business VPN
- Shared IP by default
Starting at
$2.49 monthly
ExpressVPN
Reliable connectivityProvides the most reliable global access for startups traveling to pitch or conduct market research.
- No-nonsense setup
- Great router support
- Superb privacy record
- No team management
- Premium pricing
Starting at
$6.67 monthly
Mullvad VPN
Audited securityA transparent, audited VPN for bootstrapped startups that value security over marketing fluff.
- Strictly no-logs
- Independent audits
- Fast WireGuard nodes
- No support for SSO
- No business dashboard
Starting at
€5 flat monthly
Proton VPN
Regulatory complianceHelps startups maintain compliance with Swiss-level privacy protections for sensitive customer data.
- High-security core
- Open-source apps
- Excellent free tier
- Feature-heavy interface
- Premium price for speed
Starting at
$6.99 monthly
Related Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about choosing the right software.
Based on our analysis of 7 options, NordLayer is the best overall choice for startups, earning a 4.8/5 rating. Key strengths include SSO (Okta/Google) support and Quick deployment. For a different focus, Perimeter 81 (4.7/5) is a strong alternative specializing in cloud infrastructure.
NordLayer (4.8/5, $7.00 per user) is best for scalable security, while Perimeter 81 (4.7/5, $8.00 per user) excels at cloud infrastructure. NordLayer takes the top spot overall, but Perimeter 81 is the better pick if your priority is specifically cloud infrastructure.
While none are entirely free, Surfshark starts at $2.49 monthly, making it the most budget-friendly option. Most vpn services in this roundup offer free trials so startups can evaluate before committing.
Key criteria for startups include: scalable security, cloud infrastructure, small dev teams. Our #1 pick NordLayer leads in scalable security, while GoodAccess (4.6/5) is a noteworthy option for small dev teams. Consider your specific workflow needs and budget to narrow down the best fit.
In this comparison of 7 tools, pricing ranges from $2.49 monthly (Surfshark) at the low end to premium enterprise tiers. All tools require a paid subscription, though most offer free trials. For the best balance of features and value, we recommend NordLayer at $7.00 per user.