Does Brave Have a VPN? Your Complete Guide
When users ask, “does brave have a vpn“, the answer is YES – but with caveats. Unlike traditional browsers, Brave offers a premium add-on called Brave Firewall + VPN, which integrates directly into the browser for enhanced security and privacy. While the browser itself doesn’t include free VPN functionality (unlike Opera), its optional brave browser vpn provides military-grade encryption, DNS masking, and unlimited bandwidth. This guide explores how it works, alternatives, and practical setup tips.
Why a VPN Matters for Brave Users
- Trackers & Ads Blocked: Brave already blocks cross-site trackers, but a VPN adds IP masking on public Wi-Fi.
- Geo-Restrictions: Unblock streaming platforms or news sites like BBC iPlayer or Netflix.
- ISP Throttling: VPNs prevent bandwidth throttling during gaming or streaming (optimize VPNs for gaming here).
Reddit discussions (like this one) confirm confusion around Brave’s VPN offering. Let’s clarify how to use brave browser vpn effectively.
How to Set Up Brave Firewall + VPN
Brave’s VPN requires a subscription ($9.99/month). Follow these steps:
Step 1: Subscribe to Brave Firewall + VPN
- Visit Brave’s official VPN page.
- Select your OS (Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android).
- Pay via credit card or crypto (supports Bitcoin and BAT).
Step 2: Install the VPN Extension
- On desktop, download the standalone app, not a browser extension.
- Mobile users install via App Store or Play Store.
- Launch the app and log in with your Brave account.
Step 3: Activate the VPN
- Toggle the VPN switch in the app.
- Choose server locations (25+ countries available).
- Enable “Always-On VPN” for automatic protection.
Step 4: Verify Connection
Visit a site like IPLeak.net to confirm your IP is masked. If you’re asking, “does brave have a vpn“, this test proves it works.
Note: Unlike cheap VPNs, Brave’s service uses WireGuard protocol for speeds up to 300 Mbps. For troubleshooting, check Brave’s help docs (here).
Maximizing Security with Brave VPN
- Combine with Tor: Brave’s private Tor windows + VPN = ultra-secure browsing.
- Split Tunneling: Exclude apps like online games from VPN traffic (gaming VPN guide).
- Kill Switch: Automatically cuts internet if VPN disconnects.
Brave VPN vs. Alternatives
| Feature | Brave Firewall + VPN | Proton VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $9.99/month | Free tier available |
| Speed | Faster (WireGuard) | Slower on free servers |
| Logging Policy | Zero logs | Zero logs |
For changing VPNs, see our guide on how to switch VPN providers.
Alternatives to Brave VPN
If Brave’s paid model isn’t ideal, try these:
1. Free Standalone VPNs
- Proton VPN: Unlimited data on free tier (setup guide).
- Windscribe: 10GB/month free with ad blocking.
2. Browser Extensions
- NordVPN Extension: Encrypts browser traffic only ($3.69/month).
- ExpressVPN Extension: Works with Brave but requires a subscription.
3. OS-Level VPNs
- Windows/macOS built-in VPN clients.
- Configure via OpenVPN or IKEv2 (how to get a VPN setup).
Note: Avoid sketchy “free” VPN extensions – they often sell user data.
Final Take: Yes, Brave Has a VPN – Should You Use It?
To recap: “does brave have a vpn“? Absolutely. While not free, the brave browser vpn excels with speed and privacy. For budget users, Proton VPN or Windscribe offer solid alternatives. Always prioritize no-log policies and encryption strength.
Key Takeaways
- Brave VPN requires a paid subscription (no free tier).
- Use WireGuard for maximum speed during streaming or gaming.
- Pair with Brave’s ad-blocker for comprehensive privacy.
For further reading, explore Brave’s official VPN resources or learn to migrate VPNs seamlessly.
