Best VPNs for Indonesia (2024)

Are you interested in watching Indonesian TVfrom abroad? Or perhaps you wantto stay safe while connected to a public WiFi spot in Jakarta or Padang? In either case, a VPN can help.

A virtual private network (VPN) routes internet traffic through a server operated by the VPN provider. As well as encrypting the internet traffic between the user’s device and the chosen server, a reliable VPN allows the user to get an IP address in a remote location. So, for example, a user connecting to a VPN server in Indonesia will have an Indonesian IP address for the duration of their session.

We’ll get into the specifics later, but, for now, here’s a summarized list of our top best providers for Indonesia:

1. NordVPN:Our top VPN for Indonesia.Has 11+ RAM-only servers in Jakarta and several thousand more worldwide. It combines fast speeds, powerful obfuscation, and robust security. Plans come with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark:Best budget VPN for Indonesia. Allows unlimited device connections for subscribers and provides easy access to the major streaming platforms. It has 10+ servers in Indonesia and a full GUI for Linux users.
3. ExpressVPN:Offers Indonesian IP addresses via a RAM-only server in Singapore. It provides fast connection speeds, consistent access to streaming platforms, and the option to sign up via a dedicated Onion site.
4. CyberGhost:Known for exceptionally fast connection speeds and a vast network of servers, CyberGhost has 12+ RAM-only servers in Jakarta and also provides excellent access to international streaming platforms.
5. PrivateVPN:Provides Indonesian IP addresses via a server in Jakarta, and the service is a good option for both torrenting and streaming. There’s plenty of scope for app customization, and its stealth mode enables connections in China.
6. VyprVPN:Owns its own server network and provides Indonesian IP addresses via a server in Jakarta. Combines fast connection speeds with robust security and good access to streaming platforms.

VPN services can be particularly tricky to choose between, as most seem to offer near-identical features. To arrive at the above recommendations, we objectively compared providers against a specific list of criteria. These are outlined below and expanded upon later in the article.

• Servers in Indonesia
• Fast connection speeds
• Ability to access major streaming services
• Strong privacy and security features
• Good value for money
• User-friendly apps
• Responsive customer support

To be included as one of our top three providers, we also require VPNs to have a RAM-only server network, independently audited software and infrastructure, and effective obfuscation.

Best VPNs for Indonesia

Now let’s explore each of our recommended providers in a little more detail:

NordVPN is one of the world’s most recognisable VPN brands. It offers a combination of user-friendly apps that make it easy to access streaming content, and advanced security features for those concerned with online safety.

The company has 11+ RAM-only servers in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, and provides high-speed connections via a proprietary connection protocol, NordLynx. Subscribers can stream buffer-free HD and 4K content from the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and several other platforms. The provider’s smart DNS also enables devices like games consoles and smart TVs to bypass geo-restrictions.

As well as servers optimized for streaming, NordVPN also has dedicated servers for connecting to the Tor network, double encryption, P2P sharing, and traffic obfuscation. The lattermost feature enables users to get connected in countries where internet use is restricted – like China.

Other NordVPN features include a kill switch, a dark web monitor, and split-tunneling. The company recently made its Meshnet tool – which enables users to route traffic through bespoke private networks –free for anyone to use.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. NordVPN software can also be installed on compatible home routers.

Internet traffic is protected using a combination of 256-bit AES channel encryption, SHA384 for authentication, and a 3072-bit DHE-RSA key exchange. The provider adheres to a strict no-logs policy and has had both its infrastructure and software audited several times.

NordVPN made its entire server network RAM-only following anattackon a third-party data center in Finland in 2018. It has alsostartedthe process of colocation, which involves buying – as opposed to renting – servers and housing them in purpose-built data centers.

BEST VPN FOR INDONESIA:NordVPN is our top recommendation. It has 11+ servers in Jakarta, together with excellent access to streaming platforms and fast speeds. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Readour fullreview ofNordVPN.

Surfshark is an understandably popular provider, with great value plans that offer plenty of interesting features. It has 10+ RAM-based servers in Indonesia and thousands more in 99+ other countries.

Surfshark works with all the major streaming platforms – including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer – and is fast enough to stream 4K content without buffering. Its smart DNS feature enables devices like games consoles to spoof their DNS addresses and access otherwise geo-restricted content.

Other features include MultiHop servers that provide additional encryption, obfuscation that is powerful enough to bypass Chinese censorship, and the ability to detect open torrent clients and automatically connect to a P2P server.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. The Linux app is relatively unusual in that it has a full GUI, while the Android app has an additional GPS-spoofing feature. Surfshark also has audited browser extensions available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

Users’ internet traffic is protected using 256-bit AES encryption, together with a SHA512 authentication hash and 2048-bit DHE-RSA key exchange. Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy that's been independently audited, and it also offers a rotating IP address service that makes users’ true IP addresses more difficult to track.

As of 2022, Surfshark has merged with NordVPN’s parent company – Nord Security. According to a press release issued at the time, the two companies will continue to operate autonomously.

GOOD VALUE:Surfshark has 10+ RAM-only servers in Jakarta. It is great for streaming and has options for automatic P2P connections. Subscriptions come with unlimited device connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our fullreview ofSurfshark.

ExpressVPN is popular among those who don’t mind paying a little extra for a service they believe they can trust. The company has dedicated considerable resources to the creation of its Trusted Server network. For example, in addition to being RAM-only, the servers in the network have their operating systems reinstalled every week.

Other features include a proprietary open-source connection protocol, a dedicated Onion site on the Tor network, built-in public WiFi protection, a kill switch, and a Threat Manager thatprevents access to malware-harboring websites. ExpressVPN’s powerful obfuscation also enables it to work in restrictive countries like China.

The service works exceptionally well with all major streaming platforms – including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video – and its MediaStreamer tool allows devices that aren’t compatible with VPNs to connect.

Leak-free apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Nvidia Shield, Amazon Fire TV, and Linux. ExpressVPN makes an app especially for routers, thus enabling users to more easily protect every device on their home network.

Although ExpressVPN offers an undeniably high level of service, some have questioned its decision to be acquired by Kape Technologies in 2021. Kape was previously known as Crossrider and specializes in creating software designed to inject adverts into users’ browsers.

The more forgiving will appreciate that the new-fangled Kape is a cybersecurity company – rather than an adware creator – with several VPNs in its roster. For its part, ExpressVPN has said that it will continue to operate autonomously. Since the acquisition, it has had its software and infrastructure audited as well as introducing aone-time $100,000 bug bountyfor anyone able to compromise the security of its systems.

TRUSTED SERVERS:ExpressVPN has RAM-only servers in Indonesia and 93+ other countries. It provides highly secure connections and effortless access to streaming services. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our fullreview ofExpressVPN.

CyberGhost has 10,000+ RAM-only servers in its network, connections available in 100+ countries, and some of the fastest speeds available.

It has 12+ servers in Jakarta and works well with all major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. CyberGhost servers are labeled according to which platforms they work best with, thus reducing the need for the trial-and-error approach to finding a connection.

Other features include built-in DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, free browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox, and seven simultaneous device connections. Unfortunately, only Android users get access to a dedicated split-tunneling feature.

Windows-users, meanwhile, can make use of CyberGhost’s Smart Rules tool. This allows users to specify which servers named apps should automatically connect to. For example, a Netflix app could be set to always connect to a Netflix-optimized server when opened.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. While using them, subscribers’ traffic is protected with 256-bit AES encryption, in conjunction with 2,048-bit RSA keys, and SHA256 authentication.

CyberGhost is now part of Kape Technologies, having been bought out in 2017. It has since undergone independent audits of its VPN server network and management systems, as well as continuing to issue quarterly transparency reports.

FAST CONNECTIONS:CyberGhost has 12+ RAM-only servers in Jakarta and offers subscribers market-leading connection speeds and straightforward access to streaming services. Plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our fullreview ofCyberGhost.

PrivateVPN offers secure connections and Indonesian IP addresses via a server in Jakarta. It works well with popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, and has decent connection speeds that ensure buffer-free viewing.

PrivateVPN is a good option for torrenting, too. It has dedicated P2P servers in Sweden for large file transfers, and it is one of the few providers that allow port forwarding. This latter feature enables users to connect to more peers in a torrent swarm and more efficiently seed and leech.

Apps are simple to use and available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire TV. They come with built-in protection against IPv6 leaks and DNS leaks, access to HTTP and SOCKS5 Proxies, and kill switches. PrivateVPN also has an effective stealth mode that enables PrivateVPN to bypass China’s firewall.

Subscribers are allowed to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. It is possible to set up the VPN on compatible routers, with detailed guidance on how to do it available online. The company’s customer support team is able to offer remote control assistance if subscribers get really stuck.

Although PrivateVPN has a strict no-logs policy, it has yet to be independently audited. This would be help to improve trust in the service. Despite this minor quibble,PrivateVPN says that it has never had a data breach and that Swedish law means that it has “no legal obligation to save or share data logs with anyone, including foreign governments and law enforcement agencies”.

STEALTH MODE:Provides Indonesia IP addresses via a server in Jakarta and can effectively disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. It works well for streaming and torrenting and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of PrivateVPN.

VyprVPN is a security-conscious provider that owns all of its own servers. While this relatively expensive approach means it has a smaller network than some VPN companies, it still manages to outdo many of them by having a presence in Indonesia.

VyprVPN is a good option for streaming sports and works well with a range of TV streaming platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+ thanks to its impressive speeds. Its website provides instructions on how to best connect to individual providers.

Features include automatic startup, public WiFi protection, a kill switch, and built-in DNS and WebRTC leak protection. Split tunneling is available, though only on macOS and Android.

Users can choose which connection protocol they want to use. Available options include WireGuard, IKEv2, and VyprVPN’s proprietary Chameleon protocol. This latter protocol is specially designed to mask VPN traffic so that it is less likely to be identified by countries such as China.

VyprVPN apps have a clean and approachable GUI and are consistent across platforms. They’re available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Roku. VyprVPN can also be installed on routers running the DD-WRT, AsusWRT, or OpenWRT firmware.

As of 2018, VyprVPN no longer keeps logs of user data – it had previously relied on the privacy laws of its home country, Switzerland, to keep user data safe. The new no-logs policy has been independently audited by the Leviathan security company. VyprVPN protects internet traffic using 256-bit AES encryption, in conjunction with 2,048-bit RSA keys and SHA256 authentication.

TIER-1 NETWORK:VyprVPN owns all of the servers in its network and offers Indonesian IP addresses via a server in Jakarta. Its proprietary Chameleon protocol enables access in China and its subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Methodology for choosing the best VPNs for Indonesia

With a significant proportion of the world’s internet users residing within Indonesia’s borders, it’s not surprising that VPN providers are keen to advertise their services in the country. This introduces the problem of how to choose between the many available VPN companies. To help decide, we systematically compare providers against a list of criteria using our testing methodology. These are discussed below.

• Servers in Indonesia:To get an Indonesian IP address, users need to connect to a server in Indonesia. The safest way to do this is via a machine physically located in the country – as opposed to one simply running the provider’s software. The best VPNs have multiple servers residing in Indonesia, which can all provide a range of different IndonesianIP addresses.
• Fast connection speeds:VPNs that significantly slow your connection down are incredibly frustrating and ultimately useless for day-to-day activities. To ensure that we only recommend providers that are at least fast enough for tasks like streaming HD content, we regularlytestthe download speeds of all of the top VPN services.
• Ability to access major streaming services:Local Indonesian TV stations like RCTI+ are accessible using most subscription-based VPNs. However, international streaming platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer are able to block the vast majority of VPNs. We check which VPNs are still able to provide unrestrictedaccess to these and popular services such as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO, and Disney+.
• Strong privacy and security features:It’s imperative that VPN companies can protect user data. They need to leverage several tools to do this, which must – at the very least – include 256-AES encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a clear no-logs policy. Ideally, they should also provide obfuscated servers, split tunneling, and MultiHop servers for greater online protection.
• Good value for money:We seek out the best value providers by comparing what they offer with what they charge. We only include those that strike the appropriate balance.
• User-friendly apps:The popularity of VPNs is surging worldwide – both forstreamingand for boosting privacy. The best VPN providers cater for all types of users by making instantly accessible apps that can be intuitively navigated. Clean graphical user interfaces (GUIs) help with this, as does consistency across platforms. The best apps also allow for more experienced users to configure the software to their liking.
• Responsive customer support:We all need a little help sometimes – whether that’s resolving a connection issue or making sense of a particular feature. Whatever the reason, it’s always good when someone is immediately available to help. Ideally, this takes the form of 24/7 live chat. We also like to see providers offering searchable knowledge bases containing up-to-date and comprehensive information.

Bonus points

In addition to the above, we also require our top three providers to have the following:

• Access to China:In its attempts to control the flow of information in and out of the country, China has developed some of the world’s most advanced filtering systems. Very few VPNs are able to bypass these blocks – despite claims to the contrary.
• Diskless servers:Servers that are able to permanently store information pose a security risk in that they can be compromised by hackers or seized and interrogated by state actors. With this in mind, several VPN providers have switched their networks to RAM-only servers. These run on volatile memory, which means they are essentially wiped clean at every reboot.
• Incorporation outside the scope of intelligence alliances:Several countries participate in cross-border intelligence-sharing. Groups such as the Five Eyes alliance allow member countries to bypass bans on spying on their own citizens by essentially allowing other countries to do it for them. It’s a sinister business, and one that the better VPNs try to avoid being caught up in. The easiest way to achieve this is by registering their companies beyond the reach of known alliances – in countries like Panama and the British Virgin Islands.
• Audited software and infrastructure:It’s easy enough for VPN providers to declare that they have a no-logs policy. Unfortunately, it seems that many providers do actually keep logs that they can be compelled to hand over. To make it clearer who does what, the better providers bring in auditors to check over their software and infrastructure. These audits identify whether it’s possible to retain user data, while also checking for vulnerabilities.

How to use a VPN in Indonesia

It’s easy to protect yourself online and access otherwise location-restricted services by using a VPN connection. Just follow these steps:

1. Choosea VPN with servers in Indonesia – we recommend NordVPN as the best option for most people.
2. Decideon a subscription length and sign up – longer terms can be significantly cheaper.
3. Downloadand install the relevant app for your device.
4. Restartthe device when the installation is complete.
5. Openthe app and choose “Indonesia” from the list of available countries.
6. Clickthe “connect” button.
7. Waituntil the app lets you know that a connection has been established.
8. Enjoyusing the internet with encrypted data and an Indonesian IP address.

Can I use a free VPN for Indonesia?

We wouldn’t recommend it. Free VPNs tend to have too few available servers relative to the number of people attempting to access them. If you were able to find one in Indonesia – which is itself unlikely – the resulting connection would almost certainly be sluggish. And that's without accounting for the speeds offered by your Internet Service Provider.

Because free VPNs rely on advertising revenue to support them, users can expect to see plenty of in-app adverts. More worryingly, almost all free VPNs have some form of logging policy and commonly use trackers. The collected data may be sold to advertisers – or anyone else willing to pay for it. If you're interested in online freedom, we'd stick with a premium provider for peace of mind. Free VPNs also struggle to access many popular streaming services.

Best VPNs for Indonesia: FAQs

Should I use a VPN while traveling in Indonesia?

Cybercrime in Indonesia is flourishing, so it pays to take extra precautions when visiting the country. According to anarticlein the Diplomat, there was a 22% increase in cyberattacks between 2021 and 2022.

Using a VPN can help keep your device and data safe when intentionally – or unintentionally – connecting to unsecured public WiFi networks of the type found in airports and cafes. VPNs can also enable you to access geo-restricted services in your home country.

Is the internet censored in Indonesia?

In 2020, the Indonesian governmentreleasedMinisterial Regulation Number 5/2020, which requires a broad range of technology companies to remove content based on requests from both state and non-state entities.

Moreover, the regulation requires that they provide law enforcement officials “direct access” to their systems and users’ personal data. With this in mind, Indonesians would be wise to use a VPN every time they connect to the internet.

According toLinda Lakhdhir, Asia legal advisor at Human Rights Watch, the Ministerial Regulation is a ‘tool for censorship that imposes unrealistic burdens on the many digital services and platforms that are used in Indonesia’.

In 2022, the Indonesian government temporarilyblocked accessto several major digital video game storefronts like Steam, Nintendo, and Epic Games; as well as Yahoo and Paypal. The companies had all failed to meet the deadline for registering as private electronic systems operators – a requirement stipulated by the Ministerial Regulation Number 5.

Is it legal to use a VPN in Indonesia?

Aninterpretationof the Ministerial Regulation discussed above suggests that VPNs could ultimately be banned.According toMichael Caster from campaign group ARTICLE 19, ‘Requiring digital actors to prevent content that “informs others how to access or provide access to” otherwise prohibited content may also lead to a ban on access to circumvention tools, like VPNs.’

At the time of writing, VPN use is still permitted. Indeed, Indonesia has thehighest percentageof VPN users in the world.

What TV can I watch in Indonesia using a VPN?

With one of the world’s largest populations of internet users, Indonesia has developed numerous ways to keep them entertained – TV being just one of them. Some of the most popular networks that can be accessed with a VPN include:

• RCTI+
• antv
• MNCTV
• GTV
• Trans7
• iNews
• SCTV
• Indosiar
• MetroTV
• TVRI
• tvOne

Can I use a VPN for Netflix in Indonesia?

Yes. Anybody living in or traveling to Indonesia can use a VPN for Netflix. When you connect to a VPN server abroad, you appear to have an IP address in that country. This allows you to access a regional Netflix library, which means you can watch exclusive shows that are unavailable where you are. This is perfect if you are on vacation in Indonesia but want to regain access to Netflix US, for example.

The important thing to remember is that most VPNs have already been blocked by Netflix. As a result, only a few leading providers still work. The VPNs in this guide have all been tested and have servers in at least one country that works to watch Netflix.

A Netflix VPN is useful not only to access your regular shows on vacation but also to watch Netflix at work. If your employer or school has blocked Netflix, you can bypass these restrictions by connecting to a VPN server. This will make you appear to be back home, which will allow you to watch Netflix as usual.

Please bear in mind that not all VPNs work with every Netflix region, so you may want to check if it works with yours by using the VPN's money-back guarantee, or by checking with live chat supportto see which regions it supports.

Will a VPN protect me on public WiFi in Indonesia?

If you often rely on public WiFi to work, or to use the internet while traveling or commuting, it is an extremely good idea to use a VPN.

The encryption provided by a VPN allows you to use public WiFi without fear that it may have been set up insecurely by the WiFi hotspot provider. VPN encryption also prevents you from falling victim to evil twin attacks and lets you use public WiFi without being tracked by the hotspot provider.

Using public WiFi without a VPN is bad for your privacy and exposes you to serious potential consequences. This is why it is a good idea to protect yourself with a VPN, especially if you're using sensitive apps and services.