World of Warcraft has been called one of the greatest MMORPGs ever. However, many gamers can't play it without experiencing issues. For one, most schools or workplaces block WoW from their network. The game is still unavailable in some countries, and many users frequently experience lag. This may also be caused by their ISP, which can slow down user speed when gaming.
To avoid these problems, you’ll have to use a premium VPN (virtual private network). A good VPN will provide fast servers to prevent ISP throttling, strong security against DDoS attacks and other threats, and the ability to bypass any restrictions. In short, it will improve your WoW experience while also protecting your privacy.
To get the best results, you shouldn't just download any random VPN you find on Google. It's best to use a service that's thoroughly tested and vetted. We've tested dozens of the top VPN Services to determine which ones perform the best with World of Warcraft, and narrowed it down to these top four contenders:
- NordVPN – The ultimate WoW VPN with excellent speeds, advanced security, and the ability to easily bypass geo-restrictions (with a 74% off coupon here).
- Surfshark – An affordable premium VPN with unlimited simultaneous connections and amazing speeds.
- ExpressVPN – A great WoW VPN known for its consistency and strict no-logs policy.
- IPVanish – A VPN for WoW with strong cross-platform support and very fast speeds.
This article will provide a detailed overview of each VPN and teach you how to set it up on your computer and/or router. We'll also give you tips on how you can improve your connection and provide answers to the most common WoW VPN questions.
Before we start, let's go over some key points you should be aware of when using a WoW VPN.
Key takeaways for using a VPN with WoW
- A premium VPN for WoW will enhance your privacy and security, minimize lag, prevent ISP throttling, and allow you to access restricted servers.
- Important factors when choosing a VPN for WoW include proximity to game servers for lower latency, strong security features, device compatibility, customer support, and overall value.
- Based on all of our tests, the best VPN for WoW is currently NordVPN. In addition to fast and instant connections, it has a massive server network, high-end security, and the ability to quickly and easily bypass restrictions.
How WoW VPNs Actually Work
A VPN will connect you to a secure server in the country of your choice. It will provide you with a new IP address that will make it seem like you're physically located in the country of your VPN server. This will lift numerous restrictions and allow you to join World of Warcraft servers that are otherwise unavailable.
Once you connect to a VPN server, your outgoing traffic will become encrypted. This encryption will scramble your sensitive information, making it unreadable to third parties. This will also neutralize DDoS attacks, which are frequently used by hackers to disrupt other gamers.
It is very easy to start using your VPN on your computer. Just follow these simple steps:
- Subscribe to a premium WoW VPN.
In our opinion, NordVPN is the best option available (and it comes with a 74% off coupon). - Download and install your VPN app on your computer.
- Register and log into your VPN with your new user credentials.
- Connect to any VPN server that you want to use for World of Warcraft.
You will get the most optimized connection by either using a server close to your real location or next to a gaming server. - Start playing WoW safely and securely from anywhere.
Why Do I Need a VPN for WoW?
By getting a VPN to play World of Warcraft, you will improve your security, gain privacy, and possibly lower your latency. And this is just the beginning.
- DDoS Protection – DDoS attacks disrupt your gaming by increasing your ping and latency and can even make your game unplayable. A premium WoW VPN uses advanced AES 256 encryption that will prevent them from happening.
- Access Geo-Restricted Servers – You can use a VPN to connect to any country you want, which will allow you to unlock regional servers and access special events that would otherwise be unavailable.
- Prevent Speed Throttling – Some internet service providers (ISPs) will slow down your connection if they see you are using a lot of bandwidth to play WoW. A premium VPN allows you to connect to obfuscated servers and hide your traffic, which will positively impact your speed.
Ranking Criteria for the Best VPN for WoW
Here is a list of features we've focused on finding in our perfect VPN for WoW:
- Worldwide Server Network – Each service we have mentioned has thousands of servers in key locations around the globe. This will maximize your chances of always getting an ideal connection.
- Cutting-Edge Speed – Minimal latency and a fast and reliable connection are crucial for gaming. Advanced VPN protocols, such as NordLynx, Lightway, and WireGuard, provide this. Every service on this list ranks among the best No-Lag VPNs
- High-End Security – We ensured that every provider used AES256 encryption, the gold standard in VPNs. This encryption effectively prevents third parties from accessing your sensitive data and neutralizes DDoS attacks. You will also get advanced security features like a kill switch, leak protection (IPv6, DNS, WebRTC), and split tunneling.
- Total Privacy – These are all no-logs VPN services powered by RAM servers that are unable to store user data.
- Holds Many Simultaneous Connections – All WoW VPNs will allow you to protect multiple, perhaps even all, devices on your network.
- Cross-Platform Support – We’ve looked for services that are available on Windows, Mac, and most modern devices.
- Intuitive UI – Even casual users can quickly start using every VPN on this list.
- Amazing Price to Quality Ratio – Each VPN is reasonably priced and packed with additional features that will elevate your gaming experience.
NordVPN – The best overall VPN for WoW
Website | NordVPN.com |
Based in | Panama |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 74% Off Coupon |
Based on our tests, NordVPN is the ultimate WoW VPN. By subscribing, you will gain access to a global network of 6,300+ servers in 111 countries. Since they are located in high-traffic areas, you will always be able to find a solid connection, no matter your location. This VPN supports many advanced protocols, such as IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, and NordLynx.
When it comes to gaming in general, NordLynx is a perfect choice. This is NordVPN's unique take on the cutting-edge WireGuard VPN protocol, which will provide you with low latency, instant server connections, and excellent speeds. We thoroughly tested it in our NordVPN vs ExpressVPN article and were impressed with the results. On several occasions, we managed to surpass 750+ Mbps. This is more than enough to comfortably play WoW and makes NordVPN one of the best VPNs for gaming available.
User privacy and security are equally, if not more, important. For protection, NordVPN uses AES 256-GCM encryption, preventing DDoS attacks and stopping third parties from accessing your outgoing data. This VPN also follows a strict no-logs policy and runs exclusively on RAM servers. This guarantees that your private information will never be stored on a server. Of course, there are tons of advanced security features, including a kill switch, leak protection, and VPN split tunneling.
NordVPN has been subject to numerous independent audits, all successfully completed. One of the most important was a pen test done by Cure53, confirming that this VPN has airtight security. Deloitte thoroughly vetted NordVPN's no-logs policy, and no flaws were found in its execution.
NordVPN Advanced Features
- Double VPN Servers: Improves your encryption by connecting you through multiple VPN servers. This will slightly impact your speed. You can find the same feature with both Surfshark and ProtonVPN.
- Obfuscated Servers: By using obfuscation, you will hide the fact that you are using a VPN and also get around blocks. This is a vital feature if you are living under an oppressive regime. This is why plenty of users use NordVPN as an ideal VPN for China. Remember that obfuscation will slow you down, so we would avoid using it if unnecessary.
- Onion over VPN Servers: Use NordVPN with Tor to get unparalleled security. These servers will slow down your connection, so they are unsuitable for playing WoW. However, they are crucial if you need a VPN for the Dark Web.
- Split Tunneling: A VPN with split tunneling allows you to choose which apps can connect to NordVPN's network. You can boost your security by creating an exclusive VPN tunnel for playing World of Warcraft.
- Dedicated IP: Get an exclusive IP address that you won't have to share with anybody. NordVPN's dedicated IP will further improve your security, but you will need to pay extra.
- Smart Play (Smart DNS): Unblock geo-restricted games, websites, and streaming platforms on devices that don't support VPNs. While useful, Smart DNS doesn't provide any encryption.
- Threat Protection: A real-time scanner that finds and eliminates trackers and malware. It is very good at blocking ads and will also stop you from opening phishing websites.
- Meshnet: is a secure LAN network that allows you to connect 60 players directly. It is ideal for hosting a gaming server.
- VPN Kill Switch: A failsafe mechanism that will stop your identity from leaking when every other security method fails. In case of emergency, the kill switch will disable your Wi-Fi.
See all NordVPN features here >
An Ideal Gaming VPN
NordVPN can be installed on nearly every modern device, from smartphones and computers to tablets and smart TVs. It is also possible to set it up on your router, which allows you to protect multiple devices without installing it separately. This is one of the best VPNs for Warzone, as it lets you easily connect to bot lobbies in any game you play.
NordVPN's subscription is affordable and will let you connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. If you encounter any issues, you can easily get in touch with its customer service, as it is available 24/7 via live chat.
This is an excellent free trial VPN, as it comes with a 30-day refund guarantee. You can take your time with testing it to see if this service really suits your needs.
+ Pros
- User-friendly and reliable apps
- Double VPN andOnion Over VPN servers
- Passed numerous 3rd-party audits
- Strong encryption standards with full support for WireGuard
- Works with Netflix and many streaming sites
- Threat Protection feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Professional 24/7 live chat support
- Consistently fast speeds
- Dedicated RAM-servers with 10 Gbps bandwidth channels
– Cons
- Best discounts only available with 2-year plans
NordVPN's Holiday Deal is live:
Get 74% Off NordVPN with 2-year subscriptions plus 3 extra months:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 30 day money-back guarantee.)
You can learn more information by checking our NordVPN review. Head on to our NordVPN for Gaming guide if you need help with setting it up on your device. We also have a separate article on setting up NordVPN on PS5.
Surfshark – Budget-Friendly WoW VPN with Unlimited Connections
Website | Surfshark.com |
Based in | The Netherlands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $1.99/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 87% Off Coupon |
Surfshark is one of the best cheap VPN services for WoW on the market. Its global network consists of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, providing an impressive and reliable connection. This VPN supports various protocols, including WireGuard, which is optimal for gaming. We came to this conclusion by conducting numerous speed tests, which you can check out in this Surfshark vs. CyberGhost comparison.
We even did a NordVPN vs Surfshark showdown and found that their speeds are nearly identical, although NordVPN has an edge by providing a more consistent connection on remote servers. This doesn't matter all that much, as both services are perfect for gaming. In fact, Surfshark is one of our favorite Modern Warfare 3 VPNs.
Surfshark's privacy and security are also excellent. Since this is another no-logs VPN with RAM-mode servers, none of your private information will remain stored on servers. For real-time protection, you have AES 256 encryption, leak protection, a kill switch, and split tunneling.
Similar to NordVPN, Surfshark also underwent many independent audits. For example, Cure53 tested its browser extensions with excellent results. This is the only VPN on our list with a regularly updated warrant canary. This official statement tracks requests for data disclosure, whether from the government or third parties. Luckily, no such requests were made.
Surfshark Premium Tools
- Clean Web: A cutting-edge VPN ad-blocker that will also prevent trackers and malware from infecting your device.
- NoBorders: Keep using this VPN even on heavily restricted networks. This feature makes Surfshark an ideal VPN for UAE and Dubai.
- Dynamic Multi-Hop: An upgrade to double VPN servers that gives you more customizability.
- Nexus Technology: Constantly rotates your IP address without disconnecting you from Surfshark. This can significantly boost your security.
- Surfshark One: This add-on bundle includes a search tool, antivirus, and an alert tool for tracking personal information leaks.
- Smart DNS:
- VPN Proxy
- Obfuscation
- Split Tunneling
- Kill Switch
- Leak Protection
See all Surfshark features here >
Aside from being available on computers, Surfshark also has solid cross-platform support. It is available on nearly every device that supports VPNs. Since it can be installed on router, you can also use it as a Xbox VPN. Surfshark easily unlocks geo-restricted games, which also makes it a top VPN for Steam.
You can subscribe to Surfshark for less than $3 per month. This includes unlimited simultaneous connections, making it one of the best deals on the market.
This VPN also gives you access to a 24/7 customer support team that can be contacted through live chat. Every subscription comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you don't have to take any risks.
+ Pros
- Unlimited connections
- User-friendly apps for all devices and operating systems
- CleanWeb feature to block ads, trackers, and malware
- Works great with Netflix and many other streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Strong encryption and security features (audited)
– Cons
- Limited support for VPN routers
- Above average monthly prices
Surfshark VPN Coupon:
Get 87% off Surfshark VPN plus an additional 4 months extra with the coupon below:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 30 day money-back guarantee)
We advise you to read our full Surfshark review if you have any more questions. We also wrote an extensive Surfshark for Gaming article to guide you through the setup.
ExpressVPN – High-Speed Performance and Strong Security
Website | ExpressVPN.com |
Based in | British Virgin Islands |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $6.67/mo. |
Support | 24/7 live chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 49% Off Coupon |
ExpressVPN has been on the market for over a decade, during which time it has cemented itself as one of the safest premium VPNs. It has a decent network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, so you will always be able to find an ideal WoW server. This VPN also has support for a wide variety of protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, and Lightway. The latter is a direct competitor to NordLynx and WireGuard created by ExpressVPN.
While ambitious, Lightway is, unfortunately much slower. During our recent ExpressVPN and Surfshark speed tests, we've managed to get only 330 Mbps. Sure, this was enough for us to comfortably play World of Warcraft, but it is still less than half of the speed we've achieved with other VPNs. In general, we would recommend that you use this VPN for Minecraft and other games that don't rely on fast reflexes.
Fortunately, ExpressVPN really excels when it comes to users' privacy and security. It relies on AES 256 encryption, so you will be safe from disruptive DDoS attacks and third parties trying to extract your data. This VPN uses TrustedServer technology to provide RAM servers while also implementing a rigorous no-logs policy.
ExpressVPN is a true veteran of the game and has been tested by multiple cybersecurity companies. Cure53 completed a pen test on Lightway, finding that it has airtight security. KPMG did a deep dive into privacy guidelines, the results of which you can find here.
ExpressVPN Premium Features
- Device Groups: Allows you to connect each device to a different VPN server simultaneously.
- Smart Location: Connects you to an ideal server based on your real location.
- VPN Proxy: ExpressVPN has an impressive extension that makes it one of the top VPNs for Chrome.
- Obfuscated Servers
- Leak Protection
- Split Tunneling
- Network Lock (Kill Switch)
- Media Streamer (Smart DNS)
- Threat Manager
See all ExpressVPN features here >>
ExpressVPN's app is available on a wide variety of platforms. You can also set it up on your router or buy their Aircove router, which comes with everything pre-installed. ExpressVPN easily unlocks many websites, including cloud gaming platforms. This is exactly what makes it a solid VPN for GeForce Now
This VPN allows you to hold 8 simultaneous connections, so you will likely be able to secure your entire home network. If this isn't enough, you may consider subscribing to Surfshark or IPVanish instead. As expected, this VPN offers 24/7 live chat customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
+ Pros
- User-friendly and secure apps
- Split tunneling feature (for macOS, Windows, and routers)
- Works with Netflix and most streaming services
- 24/7 live chat support
- Passed independent third-party audits for security and no-logs
- Very large server network
– Cons
- Above average prices
- Fewer features than other leading VPNs
We've also done an ExpressVPN overview. Here's how you can set up ExpressVPN for Gaming on various platforms.
IPVanish – Secure and Fast VPN for WoW
Website | IPVanish.com |
Based in | USA |
Logs | No logs (audited) |
Price | $2.19/mo. |
Support | Email and Chat |
Refund | 30 days |
Deal | 83% Off Coupon |
IPVanish is an excellent WoW VPN with a solid network of 2,200+ servers in 50+ countries, which should be enough for gaming. These servers support three protocols: OpenVPN and WireGuard, as well as IKEv2. We achieved impressive speed test results using WireGuard, with our speed going up to 830 Mbps and ping staying below 30ms. With speeds like this, you can easily use IPVanish as a VPN for Warzone and similar highly competitive games.
However, you should keep in mind that your speed may vary depending on the quality of your connection. We also did an extensive comparison between IPVanish and NordVPN. When the dust settled, NordVPN had a slight edge in terms of consistency, especially on remote servers.
IPVanish combines military-grade AES 256 encryption with a no-logs policy to give adequate protection to its users. However, privacy is still an issue as this is a US-based VPN. Since the United States is a member of the 5-Eyes alliance, IPVanish is required by law to disclose personal information if requested. This is likely a reason why this VPN doesn't have RAM servers.
IPVanish advanced features
- SOCKS5 Proxy – Provides you with faster connection but sacrifices encryption. Very useful if you need a solid VPN for torrenting.
- IPv6 and DNS Leak Protection
- Kill Switch
- Split Tunneling
- Obfuscated Servers (Scramble)
See all IPVanish features here >
IPVanish has excellent cross-platform support and allows router installation. It is one of the best VPNs for PS5, and you can also install it on your Xbox and other consoles. Its subscription is very affordable and will let you make unlimited simultaneous connections.
If you are having trouble setting up this VPN for WoW, just get in touch with its 24/7 customer support service, available via live chat. Annual subscribers will also get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
+ Pros
- Strong security features, multiple VPN protocols, and a kill switch
Extremely fast and reliable connection speeds
Wide range of reliable apps
Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Audited, no-logs policy
Ability to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
Cons
- No cryptocurrency payment options
- Based in the United States
For a deep dive, take a look at our complete IPVanish review.
How to Get the Most Out of Your WoW VPN
- Rely on Advanced VPN Protocols – Depending on the service you've subscribed to, you will want to use Lightway, WireGuard, or NordLynx. Each of them will give you an instant and fast server connection, minimal latency, and airtight security. These protocols are perfect for fast-paced games, so you can also use these VPNs for CS:GO and similar titles.
- Find Ideal VPN Servers – Generally, you should connect to the server that is either close to your real location or gaming server. Don't forget to do a speed test to ensure that you've got optimized performance.
- Update Your VPN Regularly – Premium VPNs will frequently roll out new updates to optimize server connection and fix security issues.
- Don't Rely on Obfuscated Servers – Although it gives you anonymity, obfuscation can also negatively impact your speed. If possible, don't use it while playing WoW.
- Enable Advanced Security Features – To prevent your sensitive information from leaking, ensure your leak protection features and kill switch are turned on. For an extra boost, you should enable split tunneling and create an exclusive tunnel for World of Warcraft.
- Disable Unnecessary Applications – Apps like BitTorrent can drain your bandwidth from the background, which can cause high ping and latency.
Setting Up WoW VPN on Your Router
If you want to use your VPN to protect multiple devices, installing it directly on your router is best. Here are all the steps that you need to take:
- Make sure that your router is compatible with your WoW VPN.
NordVPN has a detailed list of compatible routers. Also, Surfshark’s router list is quite similar to models compatible with ExpressVPN. We also have an IPVanish router list. - Get your router's IP address.
It is generally located on the back of your router. If it isn't there, you can simply Google “control panel IP address for [insert your router model].” - Copy this IP address into your browser tab to open your router's control panel.
- Install VPN firmware on your router.
This process will vary widely depending on the model you own. Therefore, you should head to your VPN's tutorial page and search for a specialized guide. - Restart your router and your computer.
- Safely and securely play World of Warcraft.
Troubleshooting your WoW VPN
Even if you've followed our guide and set up everything, you may encounter issues with your VPN. Here's a list of potential problems, along with simple solutions.
1. My New IP Address Doesn't Work
First, you should go to your VPN’s settings and see if your Leak Protection feature is turned on.
Next, exit any unnecessary apps. Some of them, like BitTorrent, can leak your location if you leave them working in the background.
If you're using your VPN to surf and stream shows, your browser may be problematic. More specifically, it might contain tracking cookies, which monitor your online behavior to send you targeted ads.
You can solve this by clearing your cache and cookies. These Firefox, Chrome, and Edge guides will show you how.
2. I Can’t Join a VPN Server
If you can't connect to a server, the problem usually lies in the firewall. Turning it off and trying to connect to a VPN server will show you if this is the case. If this works, you’ll have to create a firewall exception for your WoW VPN.
Windows users will follow these steps:
- Go to Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
- Choose Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click on Change Settings and find your VPN on the list.
Remember to tick the Public box. If your VPN isn’t on the list, select Allow another app and press Add once you locate it. - Confirm everything by clicking on OK.
For Mac users, there’s an Apple firewall guide you can follow.
If our solutions didn't help, you should consider getting in touch with your VPN's customer service. Also, here are some other VPN tests you can try.
Why You Shouldn't Use Free VPNs for WoW
While you may be tempted to use them, free services have many limitations that make them not ideal for gaming. Here are the biggest problems we have encountered:
1. Far Fewer Servers
Growing and maintaining a huge server network is certainly not cheap. This is why free VPNs offer fewer servers, making it that much more challenging to find a good connection. It is also fairly common for these servers to get overcrowded, slowing your connection. In worse cases, you can even get kicked off.
2. Low Bandwidth Limits
Most free VPNs come with monthly bandwidth limits. This means that you will be able to use them until you spend a few GB of data. After that, you will have to wait for the whole month until you can use it again. This is very problematic since playing World of Warcraft can use a lot of bandwidth. You will likely only be able to play for a few days, which is not ideal.
3. Subpar VPN Protocols
Free services heavily rely on PPTP and OpenVPN protocols, and neither is perfect for gaming. As such, you can expect high ping and latency, which may lead to frequent stuttering.
4. Significant Security Risks
Unfortunately, most free VPNs are problematic and can endanger your safety and privacy. For example, a recent study of 270+ free mobile VPNs found that:
- Around 18% of free VPNs didn't have encryption.
- Over 38% of services contained malware.
- 66% of free mobile VPNs had inadequate DNS leak protection.
- 75% of them contained trackers that monitored user online activity.
- 84% of free VPNs had subpar IPv6 leak protection.
The research was done on mobile services, but we have no evidence that the situation is different on computers. Unfortunately, many free VPNs generate profit by extracting sensitive data from their users. This information is then sold to ad agencies around the world.
We had to generalize, but there are actually 7 free VPNs that work as you would expect. They are still not ideal for playing World of Warcraft, but at least they won't endanger your safety. We think it is better to subscribe to a premium paid service, and you can also take advantage of VPN coupons to save some money.
In Conclusion
Subscribing to a high-end VPN for WoW will allow you to unlock new servers, neutralize DDoS attacks, and improve your ping and latency. The challenge lies in finding the one that will suit your needs.
Based on all of our test results, the best VPN for Wow is NordVPN. It provides a vast worldwide server network, along with instant and blazing-fast connection. Since this is a no-logs VPN with airtight security features, you will remain safe and private.
Related Articles:
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- Best VPNs for PUBG
- Best VPNs for Dota 2
- Best VPNs for Warzone Mobile
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play World of Warcraft with a VPN?
Yes, you can play World of Warcraft with a VPN. Many players use them to access high-performing servers and improve their gaming experience, which is not against Blizzard's policy.
What is the best VPN for WoW?
NordVPN is the ultimate WoW VPN due to its huge global server network, very fast speeds, military-grade encryption, and strict no-logs policy. It can easily protect you from DDoS attacks while providing you with low ping and latency.
What are the benefits of using a VPN for WoW?
Using a VPN for WoW can stabilize your gaming connection, reduce ping, allow you to access blocked content, and enhance security, which can greatly improve your gaming.
The “Best VPNs for World of Warcraft” article was last edited on November 27, 2024.
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