What Does VPN Stand For?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It protects your personal information by routing internet browsing through a secure encrypted "tunnel" which limits website monitoring of online activities. A VPN can change your IP address to almost any country, enabling access to otherwise restricted content.
Protecting against malware, hackers, and maintaining privacy during web navigation is crucial. Without the use of a VPN, elements of our private data remain publicly available through our IP (Internet Protocol) address.
What Does a VPN Do?
A VPN helps you browse online privately and change your IP address to an alternate location. Primary uses include:
- Protect you from malware embedded in dubious websites
- Block intrusive ads and cookie trackers to protect privacy
- Accessing regionally restricted content (shops, government websites, TV subscriptions)
- Greater freedom regarding working remotely
- Bypassing censorship
For those living away from home or who otherwise wish to access content not available in their current region, or simply to have a greater degree of anonymity while online, a VPN is a must!
How to Use a VPN?
VPNs can be accessed on mobiles, laptops, tablets, or installed on routers. After choosing a VPN provider, you download their application or extension. Once installed, the application typically runs in the background without requiring further interaction unless you change your IP or update settings.
You'll generally need to create an account with your VPN service provider. You can then select a country from which to "roam from," which changes your publicly visible IP address accordingly.
After setup, you can:
- Browse the web with greater anonymity
- Change your country's IP address to access regionally locked content
- Catch up on home country's shows through online streaming
- Watch your own TV subscriptions from abroad
How Can I Watch Irish TV with a VPN?
Many systems are regionally restricted and only watchable while your IP address is in Ireland, including:
- RTE
- Virgin Media TV
- Sky TV
- Eir TV
Simply follow the process discussed in the previous section, head over to your chosen entertainment platform's website, and you will be able to access the platform just like you would if you were at home.
Are VPNs Legal in Ireland?
Yes! Ireland has comprehensive laws encouraging freedom of expression and data access. However, you must act within your country's laws regarding online activity. If a country forbids VPN use, usage leaves you vulnerable to legal persecution.
If using a VPN for streaming, check whether your service provider permits it. Though the country you reside in may permit their use, if you are otherwise contractually obligated to only access your services within its intended country, you may also be open to fines or service cancellations.
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What Is the Best VPN in Ireland?
| VPN Provider | Prices Starting From | Browser Extensions |
|---|---|---|
| Express VPN | €6.75 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Nord VPN | €2.89 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox |
| Surf Shark VPN | €2.49 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox |
| Private Internet Access VPN | €1.79 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox |
| Private VPN | €1.90 Per Month | Not Listed |
Prices as of December 2022
All providers have positive Trustpilot scores and similar price ranges, except Express VPN being approximately four euros more expensive than Nord VPN.
Express VPN along with Nord VPN continue to be the most recognised and trusted VPN providers in the broadband market currently, and when it comes to access and security, it may well be worth investing those extra euros for peace of mind.
Nord VPN is well known for both its speed and stability, making it popular for international students and remote workers.
Are There Any Free VPNs?
Limited free services exist, though they are typically very restricted in their IP-country availability and have significantly fewer features than paid-for versions due to limited investment capacity. Updates may not apply quickly or thoroughly.
| VPN Provider | Price | Browser Extensions |
|---|---|---|
| Hide Me VPN | €0 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox, Edge |
| Proton VPN | €0 Per Month | Not Listed |
| Tunnel Bear VPN | €0 Per Month | Chrome, Firefox |
How to Get a VPN in Ireland?
| VPN Company | Phone Number | Email Address | Live Chat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | Yes |
| Nord VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | Yes |
| Surfshark VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | Yes |
| Private Internet Access VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | Yes |
| Private VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | Yes |
| Hide Me VPN | Not Available | Not Available | Yes |
| Proton VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | No |
| Tunnel Bear VPN | Not Available | [email protected] | No |
Contacting VPN providers by telephone is essentially impossible. Contact options include email or live chat from their websites. Many companies offer support ticket functionality allowing queries via email responses.
Find the Best Broadband Deal in Your Area!
Our broadband experts at Selectra can help you secure a fast, affordable plan in your area — completely free.
VPN Provider Guides
Read our detailed guides on individual VPN providers to help you decide which service suits your needs. For more broadband market and technology guides, visit our market section.
Best VPN in Ireland
Compare the best VPN services, cheapest plans, and free options for Irish users.
NordVPN
Features, pricing, and a full review of one of the most popular VPN services.
ExpressVPN
What ExpressVPN offers, how it compares, and its pricing plans.
Surfshark VPN
An affordable VPN option with strong privacy features and unlimited devices.
CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost features, pricing, and how it compares to other VPN providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About VPNs in Ireland
China, Syria, Russia.
Generally no, but necessarily the more things you have running and active on your computer, the slower it will perform.
Yes and no. Generally, most paid providers offer set-term contracts that stretch from 6 to 24 months. Longer commitments yield greater savings. Check for 30-day guarantee options allowing cancellation without penalty if dissatisfied. Some companies offer monthly-rolling or no-contracts options, though typically with less comprehensive offerings.
No. They do offer significantly heightened privacy and security, but elements of your online activities will always be detectable to those with the right tools. Review the VPN provider's terms and conditions regarding connection and user activity data retention.