Introduction
If you’re a Linux enthusiast who relies on the text-based browser w3m for your daily web scraping, reading, or even basic browsing, you know how critical it is to maintain both security and privacy. A reliable VPN that plays nicely with w3m can be a game-changer. In this article, we’ll dive into the top VPNs that are known to work seamlessly with w3m on Linux. We’ll cover detailed specs, geeky technical nuggets, and straight-up real-world performance tips. Let’s get started! 🚀🔒
Top VPN Picks for w3m on Linux
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is often rated as a top choice for command-line aficionados. It supports OpenVPN, Lightway, and provides a straightforward CLI that integrates well with systemd and net-tools—ideal for w3m users.
- Protocols: OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), Lightway
- CLI Availability: Yes, expressvpn command
- Kill Switch: Network Lock (systemd-friendly)
- Servers: 3,000 in 94 countries
- Price: From 8.32/month (annual plan)
Geek Tip: Use expressvpn connect [location] before firing up w3m to ensure your traffic is fully routed through the VPN. 😎
Official Site: https://www.expressvpn.com
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is a powerhouse with specialized obfuscated servers, perfect if you need to sneak under deep packet inspection. Its nordvpn CLI is sleek, and it includes an automatic kill switch that plays well with iptables or nftables.
- Protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, NordLynx (WireGuard-based)
- CLI Availability: Yes, nordvpn command
- Kill Switch: App or system-level
- Servers: 5,600 in 60 countries
- Price: From 3.29/month (2-year plan)
Geek Tip: Use nordvpn set technology NordLynx for minimal latency, then browse via w3m for lightning-fast text rendering. ⚡
Official Site: https://nordvpn.com
3. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is built by the privacy evangelists behind ProtonMail, offering a strict no-logs policy and Secure Core servers. Their CLI is open-source and integrates seamlessly into scripts.
- Protocols: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, WireGuard
- CLI Availability: Yes, protonvpn-cli or protonvpn (v3 )
- Kill Switch: Built-in, system-level
- Servers: 1,700 in 63 countries
- Price: Free tier available paid from 4/month
Geek Tip: Use protonvpn-cli c -r to connect to the fastest server which enhances w3m page-loading speed. 🚀
Official Site: https://protonvpn.com
4. Mullvad
Mullvad takes anonymity seriously by issuing account numbers instead of emails. Its IP leak protection pairs nicely with w3m, and the WireGuard implementation is rock-solid.
- Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard
- CLI Availability: Yes, mullvad command
- Kill Switch: Built-in, reliant on firewall rules
- Servers: 850 in 38 countries
- Price: €5/month flat rate
Geek Tip: Automate Mullvad connection with a systemd service file so your w3m sessions always start protected. 🛡️
Official Site: https://mullvad.net
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access offers advanced split-tunneling and a robust CLI. It’s a solid choice for those who like granular control over which IPs go through the VPN versus the local network.
- Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard
- CLI Availability: Yes, piactl command
- Kill Switch: Yes, system-level
- Servers: 35,000 in 84 countries
- Price: From 2.03/month (3-year plan)
Geek Tip: Leverage PIA’s piactl set routing.split_tunnel to exclude local network printers or NAS while surfing with w3m on the VPN tunnel. 🖨️
Official Site: https://www.privateinternetaccess.com
Comparison Table
| VPN | Protocols | CLI Tool | Servers | Price | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | OpenVPN, Lightway | expressvpn | 3,000 in 94 countries | 8.32/mo | expressvpn.com |
| NordVPN | OpenVPN, IKEv2, NordLynx | nordvpn | 5,600 in 60 countries | 3.29/mo | nordvpn.com |
| ProtonVPN | OpenVPN, IKEv2, WireGuard | protonvpn-cli | 1,700 in 63 countries | From 4/mo (Free tier) |
protonvpn.com |
| Mullvad | OpenVPN, WireGuard | mullvad | 850 in 38 countries | €5/mo | mullvad.net |
| PIA | OpenVPN, WireGuard | piactl | 35,000 in 84 countries | 2.03/mo | privateinternetaccess.com |
Conclusion
Choosing a VPN for w3m in Linux boils down to your priorities: speed, anonymity, protocol flexibility, or price. All five of these services offer rock-solid CLI tools, kill switches, and consistent support for text-based browsing. Whether you’re automating scraping tasks, securely reading documentation, or simply exploring the web sans GUI, these VPNs have got your back. Happy secure browsing! 🖥️🔐