Why Use a VPN with GNOME Web (Epiphany) 🔒🐧
Browsing the web through GNOME Web (also known as Epiphany) on a Flatpak setup gives you a sandboxed, secure environment. However, for true privacy, geo-unblocking, and protection against network-level snooping, pairing Epiphany with a reliable VPN is a must. Below we dive into the top VPNs that run smoothly on Linux, respect open-source philosophy, and integrate seamlessly alongside your Flatpak’ed GNOME Web.
Our Selection Criteria 🛠️
Linux Compatibility: Native support or easy setup on Linux distributions.Flatpak Friendliness: No conflicts with Flatpak sandboxing or network namespaces.Privacy Security: Strong encryption, audited code, and no-logs policy.Performance: Low latency, high throughput, and reliable global server network.Ease of Use: Intuitive Linux GUI or CLI, plus clear documentation.
Top 5 VPNs for GNOME Web on Linux (Flatpak) 🌐
1. Mullvad VPN
- Decentralized audit proofs and open-source clients.
- Anonymous account creation—no email required.
- WireGuard OpenVPN support with consistent 400 Mbps speeds.
- Flatpak packaging available via Flathub for zero hassle.
Official site: https://mullvad.net
2. ProtonVPN
- Secure Core architecture routes traffic through multiple privacy-friendly countries.
- Open-source client with Flatpak on Flathub.
- Strong kill switch, DNS leak protection, and perfect forward secrecy.
Official site: https://protonvpn.com
3. NordVPN
- Over 5,400 high-speed servers worldwide.
- WireGuard implementation (“NordLynx”) for ultra-low latency.
- Supports Linux CLI Flatpak community builds available.
Official site: https://nordvpn.com
4. Surfshark
- Camouflage Mode hides VPN usage from ISPs.
- MultiHop double VPN chains for extra anonymity.
- Flatpak packaging from community repos or install via CLI.
Official site: https://surfshark.com
5. Windscribe
- Configurable firewall (always-on kill switch) in Linux client.
- Easy Flatpak installation from Flathub.
- Strong Stealth mode to bypass DPI filters.
Official site: https://windscribe.com
Comparison Table 🔍
| VPN | Servers | Protocol | Flatpak | Price (USD/mo) | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullvad | 800 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Yes | €5 (flat) | mullvad.net |
| ProtonVPN | 1,800 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Yes | From 4.00 | protonvpn.com |
| NordVPN | 5,400 | NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN | Community | From 3.29 | nordvpn.com |
| Surfshark | 3,200 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Community | From 2.49 | surfshark.com |
| Windscribe | 480 | WireGuard, OpenVPN | Yes | From 4.08 | windscribe.com |
Installing VPN via Flatpak 🚀
- Ensure Flatpak is installed:
sudo apt install flatpak (Debian/Ubuntu) - Add Flathub repo:
flatpak remote-add –if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo - Install your chosen VPN client:
flatpak install flathub net.mullvad.MullvadVPN - Launch and authenticate, then connect to your preferred server.
Wrapping Up 🎯
Whether you’re a privacy geek or just need secure streaming on GNOME Web (Epiphany) stable via Flatpak, these VPNs deliver rock-solid encryption, Linux-friendly tooling, and straightforward Flatpak installs. Pick your favorite, follow the simple setup steps, and browse with confidence!