Why Use a VPN with Thorium Browser Stable on Linux
Running Thorium Browser Stable on Linux gives you a sleek, Chromium-based browsing experience, but pairing it with a solid VPN is an absolute must if you want to:
- Keep your IP hidden from prying eyes 🌐
- Bypass geo-blocks for streaming, gaming, and research 🎮
- Protect sensitive data on public Wi-Fi hotspots 🔒
- Strengthen your privacy even when browsing in Incognito mode 🕵️♂️
With so many VPNs out there, it can be overwhelming to choose one that plays nicely with your Linux distro and Thorium’s sandbox. We’ve tested the top contenders for stability, performance, and Linux friendliness—here’s what cracked our list.
How to Set Up a VPN on Linux for Thorium Browser
Most premium VPNs offer either a native Linux client or a command-line tool. Follow these general steps:
- Sign up for the VPN of your choice.
- Download the Linux package (DEB/RPM/AppImage) or install via distro repo.
- Authenticate using your credentials or config file (.ovpn for OpenVPN, .conf for WireGuard).
- Enable the kill switch, DNS leak protection, and WireGuard (if available) for rock-solid security.
- Launch Thorium Browser and verify your new IP at an IP-check service.
Each provider has its nuances—scroll down for detailed instructions per VPN.
Top 5 VPNs for Thorium Browser Stable on Linux
1. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is renowned for its strict no-logs policy and end-to-end Secure Core servers. Built by CERN and MIT alumni, it’s a privacy powerhouse.
Key Features:
- No-logs policy audited by PwC
- WireGuard OpenVPN support
- Native Linux client: AppImage GUI CLI
- Secure Core: Tor-like double hop routing
- Free tier available (limited speed)
Installation (Ubuntu/Debian):
- Download the AppImage from the official site.
- chmod x ProtonVPN-.AppImage
- ./ProtonVPN-.AppImage
Official website: protonvpn.com
2. Mullvad VPN
Mullvad’s appeal lies in true anonymity—you don’t even need an email to sign up. Pay with cash, Bitcoin, or credit card.
Key Features:
- Anonymous account numbers—no PII required
- WireGuard first (blazing fast)
- CLI GTK GUI on Linux
- Flat pricing: €5/month
- Port forwarding for P2P and custom setups
Installation (Fedora example):
- sudo dnf install https://mullvad.net/download/app/deb
- mullvad account login YOUR-ACCOUNT-NUMBER
- mullvad connect
Official website: mullvad.net
3. NordVPN
A veteran in the VPN space, NordVPN offers a polished Linux app plus one of the largest server networks globally.
Key Features:
- 3,000 servers optimized for torrenting and streaming
- NordLynx (WireGuard-based) for top speeds
- Full GUI CLI installer on Debian/Ubuntu
- Double VPN Onion over VPN modes
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Installation (Ubuntu):
- wget -qnc https://repo.nordvpn.com/gpg/nordvpn_public.gpg
- sudo apt install nordvpn
- nordvpn login amp nordvpn connect
Official website: nordvpn.com
4. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN nails user-friendliness with a straightforward GUI and CLI, plus its Lightway protocol for snappy connections.
Key Features:
- Lightway OpenVPN protocols
- Graphical GTK UI and CLI
- TrustedServer tech: RAM-only servers
- Split tunneling support on Linux
- 24/7 live chat and extensive knowledge base
Installation (Fedora):
- rpm -i https://download.expressvpn.xyz/expressvpn.rpm
- expressvpn activate YOUR-ACTIVATION-CODE
- expressvpn connect
Official website: expressvpn.com
5. Surfshark
Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, making it ideal if you’ve got a full geek lab at home.
Key Features:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- WireGuard, OpenVPN Shadowsocks
- CLI Debian/Ubuntu GUI installer
- Camouflage Mode to hide VPN usage
- MultiHop servers for double encryption
Installation (Debian):
- apt install surfshark-vpn
- surfshark-vpn login
- surfshark-vpn connect
Official website: surfshark.com
Comparison Table
| VPN | Key Protocols | Linux Client | Monthly Price | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proton VPN | WireGuard, OpenVPN | AppImage GUI CLI | From 4 | protonvpn.com |
| Mullvad | WireGuard, OpenVPN | CLI GTK GUI | €5 flat | mullvad.net |
| NordVPN | NordLynx, OpenVPN | GUI CLI | From 3.29 | nordvpn.com |
| ExpressVPN | Lightway, OpenVPN | GTK UI CLI | From 8.32 | expressvpn.com |
| Surfshark | WireGuard, OpenVPN, Shadowsocks | CLI GUI | From 2.49 | surfshark.com |
Conclusion
Whether you’re a privacy purist, a multimedia junkie, or a Linux power user, pairing Thorium Browser Stable with any of these VPNs will elevate your browsing game. From audited no-log policies to turbo-charged WireGuard speeds, each service brings something unique to the table. Pick your geek-approved champion, follow the setup steps, and enjoy secure, unrestricted browsing on your Linux box! 🎉