As of the third quarter of 2024, **** percent of internet users in the United Arab Emirates stated they used virtual private networks (VPN) for at least some online activities. Russia ranked second, with **** percent of its online users using VPNs as of the measured period. Overall, **** percent of internet users worldwide were virtual private network users.

Since 2021, the most important reasons for using a virtual private network (VPN) in the United States were general privacy and security, which were mentioned by at least ** percent of respondents each year, this share reaching ** percent for general privacy in 2023. VPNs allow users to establish secure connections between their devices and the internet by encrypting the data. For this reason, VPNs are used both in a private and professional context.

In 2023, virtual private network (VPN) usage stood at approximately ** percent in the United States, the majority of respondents using a VPN doing so for personal devices only. By contrast, ** percent of American adults did not use a VPN or were unaware of them.

The dataset is comprised of the individual states in the U.S. with significant increases in average daily search volume for VPN following the introduction of social restrictions in March and April 2020. For each state, the trends in search volume for VPN terms subsequent to the initial spike in demand were also recorded every seven days aftewards.

Introduction

NordVPN or ExpressVPN Statistics: The global VPN market grew significantly in 2024, as users began to be more worried about online privacy, data security, and unobstructed internet access. Among the many companies, NordVPN and ExpressVPN have become the two most dominant players with their big user base and technology prowess.

This article takes you through 2024 NordVPN or ExpressVPN statistics and market insights, alongside a separate study for comparison based on user type, market share, technological innovations, and so forth.

VPN usage in the United States has surged during the coronavirus crisis, increasing 124 percent during the two weeks between March 8 and March 22, 2020. The United States reported an increase of over 33,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases during these two weeks. Increased VPN usage can have many reasons, the most popular ones being access to other digital media content and social networks, and most importantly, access to different news sources. As some countries restrict access to many news and media outlets, users frequently use VPN to stay up to date with crucial developments.For further information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please visit our dedicated Facts and Figures page.

Snapshot img

VPN Market Size 2025-2029

The vpn market size is forecast to increase by USD 57.85 billion, at a CAGR of 16.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing adoption of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies and the surge in cloud-based services. The flexibility and convenience offered by these trends have led to a rise in the number of organizations allowing employees to use their personal devices for work purposes. Simultaneously, the shift to cloud services has resulted in an increased need for secure and private connections to access sensitive data and applications. However, the market faces challenges as well. Open-source VPN solution providers are gaining traction, offering cost-effective alternatives to commercial VPN solutions. These free options can pose a threat to market players, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses with limited budgets. To remain competitive, companies must focus on providing value-added services and ensuring robust security features to differentiate themselves from open-source alternatives. Navigating this dynamic market landscape requires strategic planning and a deep understanding of customer needs and preferences. Companies that can effectively address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by these trends will be well-positioned for success.

What will be the Size of the VPN Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, with dynamic applications across various sectors, including network infrastructure, secure remote access, and secure web browsing. Virtual networks provide entities with anonymous browsing and technical support, ensuring data security through features such as kill switches, SSL/TLS, VPN servers, and VPN security. Multi-factor authentication, VPN subscriptions, VPN software, intrusion prevention systems, no-logs policies, and identity protection are integrated components. Routing protocols, VPN appliances, and VPN stability are essential for network virtualization and data leakage prevention. Logging policies, data encryption, and VPN speed are critical for maintaining network security and privacy. Customer support, IP address masking, split tunneling, and phishing protection are integral to online privacy and VPN services. Censorship circumvention, network security, and VPN providers are crucial for cloud computing and server infrastructure. Data compression, malware protection, and geo-restriction bypass are additional features that enhance VPN reliability and digital privacy. Encryption protocols, two-factor authentication, VPN gateways, location spoofing, L2TP/IPsec, bandwidth throttling, and network latency are ongoing concerns for VPN users. The market's continuous unfolding reveals a vibrant ecosystem, with entities adapting to evolving patterns and requirements. VPN privacy, zero-knowledge VPN, and VPN reliability remain top priorities for businesses and individuals alike.

How is this VPN Industry segmented?

The vpn industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. TypeMPLSIPOthersEnd-userCommercialIndividualGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth AmericaBrazilRest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The mpls segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.In today's business landscape, securing network infrastructure and ensuring secure remote access have become paramount. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have emerged as a preferred solution, offering features such as secure web browsing, data encryption, and intrusion detection. MPLS VPNs, in particular, have gained popularity due to their superior performance and security. These networks provide uninterrupted accessibility, essential for businesses, while also offering built-in disaster recovery and business continuity features. MPLS VPNs employ advanced routing protocols, such as L2TP/IPsec, to ensure secure data transmission. Furthermore, they offer data leakage prevention, logging policy compliance, and multi-factor authentication for enhanced security. VPN appliances and concentrators ensure vpn stability, while kill switches and SSL/TLS protocols add an extra layer of protection. Moreover, MPLS VPNs cater to the need for anonymous browsing and censorship circumvention, ensuring online privacy. They also offer data compression and malware protection, ensuring efficient and secure cloud computing. Network virtualization and identity protection are additional benefits, making MPLS VPNs an indispensable part of network secur

The dataset is comprised of countries in the Asia-Pacific region with significant increases in average daily search volume for VPN following the introduction of social restrictions in March and April 2020. For each country, the trends in search volume for VPN terms subsequent to the initial spike in demand were also recorded every seven days aftewards.

The VPN server software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing concerns over online privacy and data security, coupled with the expanding adoption of remote work and cloud-based services. The market, estimated at $5 billion in 2025, is projected to maintain a healthy Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rise in cyber threats and data breaches is compelling both individuals and corporations to prioritize secure online connections, significantly boosting demand for VPN solutions. Secondly, the increasing reliance on remote work models, accelerated by recent global events, necessitates secure access to corporate networks, further driving the adoption of VPN server software. Finally, the proliferation of IoT devices and the growing use of public Wi-Fi networks have heightened security vulnerabilities, making VPNs an essential tool for protecting sensitive data. Market segmentation reveals a significant contribution from both personal and corporate VPN users, with remote access VPNs holding a leading market share among the various types. North America currently dominates the market, reflecting the early adoption of advanced technologies and robust cybersecurity infrastructure. However, the Asia-Pacific region exhibits significant growth potential, driven by increasing internet penetration and a rising awareness of online security risks. Competitive rivalry is strong, with established players like Cisco and Symantec competing with a range of specialized VPN providers such as NordVPN and ExpressVPN. The market's trajectory is expected to be influenced by evolving cybersecurity threats, technological advancements in encryption protocols, and regulatory changes impacting data privacy. The increasing sophistication of cyberattacks is likely to push organizations to invest in more robust and advanced VPN solutions, driving demand for higher-end products with enhanced security features. Conversely, increasing regulatory scrutiny of data privacy might lead to stricter compliance requirements, impacting vendor strategies and potentially influencing market pricing. Furthermore, the integration of VPN capabilities within other security solutions, such as cloud security platforms, may shape the market landscape in the coming years. Emerging technologies like 5G and edge computing are also expected to create both opportunities and challenges, demanding greater flexibility and scalability in VPN server software. The competitive landscape will continue to see mergers, acquisitions, and the emergence of innovative players, further shaping the market dynamics.

In ****, the main reasons for VPN usage worldwide were privacy, followed by anonymous browsing, and secure communication. VPNs are designed to extend a network securely from a private location, such as a business or home, across a public network, as if the networks were directly linked. VPNs are popular among consumers for obfuscating their real location, whether to access geo-blocked services or bypass censorship or other restrictions. Among enterprises, VPNs are often set up to allow employees to access corporate intranets while traveling or working from home.

The dataset is comprised of countries in Europe with significant increases in average daily search volume for VPN following the introduction of social restrictions in March and April 2020. For each country, the trends in search volume for VPN terms subsequent to the initial spike in demand were also recorded every seven days aftewards.

The global VPN services market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $2153.9 million in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increasing concerns over online privacy and data security, particularly with the rise of cyber threats and data breaches, are driving consumer demand for VPN services. Furthermore, the growing use of public Wi-Fi networks and the increasing need for secure access to corporate networks from remote locations are significant contributors to market growth. The proliferation of streaming services with geographically restricted content further fuels adoption, as users seek to bypass these limitations. Competition is fierce, with established players like NordVPN and ExpressVPN vying for market share alongside newer entrants and specialized providers focusing on specific niches, such as security for specific devices or enhanced anonymity features. The market is segmented by service type (e.g., personal, business), deployment model (e.g., cloud-based, on-premise), and geographic region. Future growth will likely be influenced by advancements in VPN technology, such as improved speed and security protocols, as well as the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding data privacy. The market's segmentation presents opportunities for targeted marketing strategies. Businesses are increasingly adopting VPNs for secure remote access and data protection, representing a substantial segment with high growth potential. Geographic variations in digital literacy, internet penetration, and data privacy regulations also affect adoption rates. North America and Europe currently hold significant market shares, but growth is expected in Asia-Pacific and other regions as internet usage and awareness of cybersecurity risks increase. Continued innovation, particularly in areas like multi-hop VPNs and enhanced encryption, will be crucial for companies to maintain a competitive edge in this dynamic market. Addressing concerns about VPN performance, such as speed limitations and potential compatibility issues, will also be essential to attract and retain customers. The long-term outlook for the VPN services market remains positive, underpinned by persistent demand for enhanced online privacy and security.

Market Size statistics on the Virtual Private Network (VPN) Providers industry in the US

The market for network devices supporting Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for secure remote access and data protection across various sectors. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $15 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The rise of remote work and the increasing adoption of cloud-based services necessitate robust VPN solutions for secure data transmission. Furthermore, stringent data privacy regulations and growing cyber security threats are pushing organizations to invest heavily in secure network devices equipped with advanced VPN capabilities. The enterprise segment, encompassing large corporations and SMEs, dominates the market, followed by the education and government sectors. Router and switch devices constitute the largest segment within the hardware category, indicating a preference for integrated solutions. Key players like Cisco, Juniper, and Huawei are leveraging their established market positions and technological expertise to innovate and capture significant market share. Competition is also fierce from smaller, specialized vendors offering cost-effective and feature-rich solutions. The future growth trajectory is projected to remain positive, driven by the continued expansion of digital infrastructure, the Internet of Things (IoT) adoption, and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. Geographical expansion into emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa regions, will also contribute significantly to market growth. While technological advancements are enabling more sophisticated and secure VPN solutions, potential restraints could include the complexities of integrating VPNs into existing IT infrastructures, along with concerns about the latency and bandwidth consumption associated with VPN usage. However, continuous technological innovation, focusing on improving VPN performance and usability, is expected to mitigate these concerns, ensuring sustained growth in this vital market segment.

The dataset is comprised of countries in the Middle East and Africa with significant increases in average daily search volume for VPN following the introduction of social restrictions in March and April 2020. For each country, the trends in search volume for VPN terms subsequent to the initial spike in demand were also recorded every seven days aftewards.

This dataset contains the summary of demographic information, anonymized semi-structured interview transcripts, and drawings resulting from our study on mental models or VPN technology among experts and non-experts in a professional service firm in the Netherlands. The interviews were conducted in June and July 2020. We conducted semi-structured interviews with eleven experts and seven non-experts. We also asked our participants to complete a drawing exercise to help participants to think aloud about how the VPN is organized and functions. Five interviews were conducted in English, and thirteen were in Dutch.
The interview questions were focused on the following topics:1) What a VPN is? 2) For what purpose a VPN is used? 3) What the technical infrastructure of a VPN looks like? 3) What the security benefits and/or risks of using a VPN are? 4) What changes occur in the threat landscape when using a VPN?5) What the impact of a possible attack could be when using a VPN.
This research project was reviewed and approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Delft University of Technology (reference number: 55223).

Consumer VPN Market size was valued at USD 51.1 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 73.8 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.The growth of the Consumer VPN market is driven by increasing concerns over online privacy and data security, as consumers become more aware of cyber threats, data breaches, and surveillance. The rise in remote work and the need for secure internet connections has further accelerated demand for VPN services. Additionally, the desire to access geo-restricted content, such as streaming services, is a significant factor driving VPN adoption. Technological advancements, improved user interfaces, and more affordable subscription plans make VPN services accessible to a broader audience. Furthermore, regulatory changes around internet freedom and privacy protection in various regions have also contributed to the rising demand for consumer VPNs.

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach $2029.5 million by 2029, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.8%. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. Increasing cyber threats and data breaches are prompting both individuals and businesses to prioritize online security, driving demand for VPN services that encrypt internet traffic and mask IP addresses. The rise of remote work and the increasing reliance on cloud-based services further contribute to this growth, as VPNs become essential tools for securing remote access and protecting sensitive data. Additionally, the growing awareness of online privacy concerns, particularly regarding government surveillance and data tracking, is pushing users towards VPNs as a means of maintaining anonymity and controlling their digital footprint. The market is segmented by various factors including pricing tiers (premium vs. basic), device compatibility (desktop, mobile), and service features (encryption protocols, server locations). Leading vendors like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Private Internet Access are continuously innovating to meet evolving customer needs and compete in this dynamic market. The competitive landscape is marked by both established players and new entrants striving for market share through advanced features, competitive pricing, and strategic partnerships. The forecast period of 2025-2033 is expected to witness sustained growth driven by the increasing adoption of VPNs across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and education. However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles in certain regions and concerns about VPN service reliability and speed could pose some restraints. Despite these challenges, the overall market outlook remains positive, with continuous innovation in VPN technologies and the expanding awareness of online security risks promising substantial growth in the coming years. The market is geographically diverse, with significant contributions from North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions. While precise regional data isn't provided, we can infer a considerable market share for these regions given their technological advancement and strong emphasis on data privacy and security.

Cloud Virtual Private Network (VPN) market size is expected to reach USD 40.78 Billion in 2030 and register a revenue CAGR of 21.6%, Rising demand for VPN technologies or virtual appliances in security products and services, growing adoption of secure remote access, and increased acceptance of private clouds

Virtual Private Network (VPN) Market Outlook

The global Virtual Private Network (VPN) market size was valued at approximately USD 45 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 105 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10%. This growth is driven by increasing concerns over data security and privacy, rising incidences of cyber-attacks, and the expanding remote workforce. The demand for secure and private internet connectivity, particularly amidst the growing trend of remote and hybrid work environments, has substantially fueled the VPN market.

One of the significant growth factors driving the VPN market is the increasing awareness and necessity of data security and privacy. With the advent of digitalization, enterprises and individuals are more exposed than ever to cyber threats. This has made VPNs indispensable tools for securing sensitive data. Particularly in sectors such as BFSI and healthcare, where data breaches can have catastrophic consequences, the adoption of VPN solutions is becoming a standard practice. Moreover, regulatory compliances such as GDPR and HIPAA necessitate robust data protection measures, further boosting market growth.

The proliferation of remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic has also significantly contributed to the market's expansion. Businesses around the globe have had to adapt quickly to remote working conditions, necessitating secure and reliable access to corporate networks. VPNs have proven essential in providing secure remote access, ensuring that employees can work productively from any location without compromising on data security. This trend is expected to persist even post-pandemic, as many organizations have recognized the benefits of flexible working arrangements.

The growing trend of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies in workplaces has added another dimension to the demand for VPNs. These policies, while increasing mobility and flexibility for employees, also introduce potential security vulnerabilities. VPNs mitigate these risks by encrypting data transmitted over the network, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure irrespective of the device used. As organizations increasingly adopt BYOD policies, the demand for robust VPN solutions is expected to rise correspondingly.

Regionally, North America has been the dominant market for VPNs, driven by the presence of major tech companies and the high adoption rate of digital services. However, regions such as Asia Pacific and Europe are rapidly catching up. Asia Pacific, in particular, is expected to witness the highest growth rate due to the increasing penetration of internet services, rising cybersecurity threats, and growing awareness about data privacy. The regional dynamics indicate a broadening of the market's geographical footprint, which will further spur overall market growth.

Component Analysis

The VPN market can be segmented based on components into software and services. The software component includes VPN applications that can be installed on various devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. These software applications offer functionalities such as data encryption, secure browsing, and anonymous IP addresses. The growing consumer awareness about personal data security is driving the demand for VPN software. Additionally, the increasing use of smart devices and the internet of things (IoT) is further propelling the adoption of VPN software solutions.

The services component, on the other hand, offers managed VPN services, consulting, and support & maintenance. Managed VPN services are particularly beneficial for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the resources to manage their own VPN infrastructure. These services provide a cost-effective way to ensure data security and compliance. Consulting services help organizations to assess their security needs and implement the most suitable VPN solutions, while support and maintenance services ensure the continuous and efficient operation of VPNs.

The growing complexity of cyber threats has made it essential for organizations to not only implement but also continuously monitor and update their VPN solutions. This has led to an increasing demand for managed VPN services. These services offer continuous monitoring, threat detection, and automatic updates, ensuring that the VPN solution remains robust and effective against evolving cyber threats. Moreover, the subscription-based model of managed services provides a steady revenue stream for service providers, contributing to market growth.