Instagram is blocked in some countries. The best way around these blocks is using a VPN service.
CyberGhost is my best VPN for Instagram.
It has the largest server network for quickly unblocking Instagram and accessing music libraries unavailable in your region. It has encryption to keep your account safe from hacking.
It also packs good connection speeds for watching Instagram reels without lag.
Additionally, other alternatives that made it to this review alongside CyberGhost include Surfshark (budget-friendly prices), ExpressVPN (fastest obfuscation), NordVPN (solid privacy and security), and AtlasVPN (comes with a free version).
So, if you want to widen the horizons of what you can do with your Instagram account through a reliable VPN provider, keep reading.
Top 3 VPNs for Instagram (December, 2024)
Surfshark has the cheapest price plans and offers unlimited device connections. It also has an ad and tracker blocker for a smooth and uninterrupted Instagram experience. The speeds are also among the fastest without bandwidth limits or data caps. It has over 3200 servers for unblocking Instagram, offering obfuscation for heavy censorship.
CyberGhost has the largest server network (8,000+) to unblock Instagram anywhere in the world. It also packs incredible speeds without data caps, ideal for streaming Instagram reels. The security is top-notch, and so is privacy. It also has an ad and tracker blocker for keeping Instagram ads at bay and is compatible with smartphones.
ExpressVPN offers automatic obfuscation that’s fast and secure. It has over 3000 servers optimized for unblocking Instagram and other restricted social media websites and resources. The connection speeds are among the best and can handle streaming Instagram reels. Lastly, it has an ad and tracker blocker for a smooth Instagram experience without ad interruptions.
Countries that block Instagram do it for various reasons. China, Iran, and Russia do it to stop “Western influence.” Some schools and workplaces block Instagram to limit distractions. Whatever the reason, you’ll need an Instagram VPN.
Are you ready to see how things panned out in the tests? Let’s roll!
Can’t Access Instagram? Here’s a Quick Rundown of the Best VPNs You Can Use
Before you jump into your Instagram reels, here’s a glance at the five best VPNs for Instagram and what they bring to the table.
- Cyberghost – Largest Server Network for Unblocking Instagram
- Surfshark – Fastest Speeds for Watching Instagram Reels
- ExpressVPN – Automatic Obfuscation for Bypassing Heavy Instagram Censorship
- NordVPN – Reliable Security for Safeguarding Instagram Account
- AtlasVPN – Best Freemium VPN for Unblocking Instagram
Each VPN on this list was subjected to rigorous tests on speed, IP leaks, and adblocker efficiency, among other parameters. The information here is an accurate presentation of how each performed.
The 5 Best VPNs for Unlocking Instagram
China, Russia, and Belarus are some of the countries that block Instagram.
You may also have issues accessing Instagram on a school or work network.
If that’s the case, here are the 5 VPNs to get you past these blocks and more.
1. Cyberghost - Largest Server Network for Unblocking Instagram
| Location | Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Romania | 8800+ | Seven | 27Mbps | Show Offer |
Ability to Unblock Instagram
CyberGhost has over 8,000 servers in 91 countries, the largest network on this list. You can bypass Instagram blocks no matter where you are.
For example, I run a baby clothes shop, and I wanted people from the US to see it. I connected to a US server, and within a day, likes from the US started showing up.
The same extends to playing music or other media unavailable in your region (due to copyright issues). The servers are not hard to navigate either.
They’re arranged in categories for easy access, perfect for someone who’s never used the VPN before.
One downside is the lack of obfuscation. Unblocking Instagram is easy, even in heavily censored countries, but your VPN use will be easily detected.
Fortunately, CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers can help with this, as they’re out of reach from any government.
Protection Against Tracking
To keep advertisers from tracking and bombarding your Instagram timeline with targeted ads, CyberGhost VPN employs a Block Content feature that works on all platforms. It wasn’t heavy on data when I used it on my Android phone, which was nice.
Block Content also did a decent job of keeping ads from loading on my Instagram timeline during the tests. It scored 77/100 when I passed it through the Adblock Tester. This was better than all the other ad blockers on this review. Although some ads slipped through, they weren’t as aggressive as they usually are.
Privacy
CyberGhost has ironclad encryption perfect for accessing your Instagram through a public network. Digital creeps and hackers will have difficulty going past this high-level buffer.
The privacy offered by this VPN is also solid. A quick IP leak test showed nothing out of place. So you can use CyberGhost with your IG with full DNS leak protection.
Furthermore, this VPN client has an automatic kill switch that ensures your data is never exposed when the VPN fails. Your connection is restored once a secure VPN tunnel is established.
Like other VPN services here, you also get a reliable split tunneling feature that you can use to direct Instagram traffic through the VPN and avoid inconveniencing other apps that don’t work with VPNs (banking apps and PayPal). This improved overall performance on my device, especially video streaming speeds.
However, split tunneling is only available for Android.
Although, there is an “exceptions” option for websites on the Windows app.
Connection Speeds
Using the closest server I could find, I averaged 27Mbps with CyberGhost, which was impressive. Instagram videos loaded without lag.
CyberGhost utilizes streaming optimized servers built for peak video performance regardless of your device, which explains these connection speeds. Try using streaming or P2P servers for their superior speeds.
Device Compatibility + Pricing
CyberGhost is compatible with Android and iOS, and you can connect up to 7 devices simultaneously. This is more than NordVPN and ExpressVPN and perfect for students looking to bypass Instagram blocks on their school network.
CyberGhost has affordable prices, plus it’s the only VPN with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Additionally, you can get it cheaper by using these special discounts.
Pros
- Unblocks Instagram anywhere
- Fast streaming speeds
- Robust privacy and security
- Compatible with iOS & Android
- Reliable ad blocker
Cons
- Lacks obfuscation
2. Surfshark - Fastest Speeds for Watching Instagram Reels
| Location | Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Netherlands | 3200+ | Unlimited | 27Mbps | Show Offer |
Ability to Unblock Instagram
Surfshark has over 3,200 servers optimized for unblocking banned social media platforms like Instagram, even in the most restricted countries.
These servers are constantly upgraded with a minimum of 1 Gbps ports for reliable speeds.
If you’re looking to promote your Instagram shop in another hemisphere, simply choose a server in that region and start sharing content with your new audience. The same applies to getting your hands on restricted media content like music, video reels, or images.
Surfshark may have one of the smallest server networks on this list, but that didn’t affect its unlocking capabilities. I could unblock Instagram music in different places across Europe and Asia.
You can also go past heavy censorship in China, Iran, or Russia, thanks to a reliable obfuscation feature called Camouflage Mode.
You definitely need this if you don’t want to be caught by your school or work.
However, unlike ExpressVPN’s obfuscation, Camouflage Mode only works with OpenVPN, and since this isn’t the fastest protocol, your speeds will reduce.
Protection Against Tracking
Surfshark has an ad and tracker blocker called CleanWeb that can be activated from the settings. This ensures your Instagram experience is without ad interruptions. This also saves mobile data if you’re not on Wi-Fi.
CleaWeb got a 61/100 test score. That’s less than CyberGhost’s Block Content but better than ExpressVPN’s Threat Manager.
The ads reduced significantly when I activated CleanWeb on my Instagram.
Another area where CleanWeb beats Threat Manager is that it works on all platforms, including Android and iOS.
Privacy
You don’t have to worry about hackers or other threats to your account because Surfshark employs the latest encryption protocols.
Anybody trying to snoop on your Instagram activities is met with scrambled nonsense they can’t decipher.
In addition, Surfshark offers an internet kill switch that stops all leaks when your VPN fails. And speaking of leaks, Surfshark passed all the IP leak tests I conducted without any vulnerabilities showing up.
Surfshark also offers split tunneling (ByPasser). It’s an innovative tool that allows me to control my connectivity by choosing what applications or websites to route via the VPN. This boosted my speed without interfering with the other apps. Unlike CyberGhost’s split tunneling, ByPasser works across all platforms.
Connection Speeds
Surfshark registered 27Mbps, the joint fastest VPN with CyberGhost and NordVPN. This was more than enough to handle my streaming needs on Instagram. Loading high-quality Instagram stories and reels of my followers were so smooth I forgot I was conducting tests.
The secret behind these speeds lies in the fast and secure protocols like IKEv2 and WireGuard and constant server upgrades.
However, the IKEv2 protocol is no longer available on Windows.
But you can switch between WireGuard and IKEv2 to get better Instagram performance on Android and iOS.
Device Compatibility + Pricing
Surfshark works with Android and iOS with clean and intuitive native apps.
Additionally, Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, like AtlasVPN. Combined with its affordable price plans, Surfshark is the best VPN for groups of Instagram users looking for a tool to bypass bans with one VPN account.
Here are amazing discounts you can take advantage of right now.
Pros
- Unblocks Instagram anywhere
- Fastest streaming speeds
- Strong privacy and security
- Compatible with iOS & Android
- Reliable ad blocker
Cons
- Obfuscation only works with OpenVPN
- Obfuscation is slower than ExpressVPN
3. ExpressVPN - Automatic Obfuscation for Bypassing Heavy Instagram Censorship
| Location | Servers | Connections | Average Test Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BVI | 3000+ | 5 | 21 Mbps | Show Offer |
Ability to Unblock Instagram
ExpressVPN offers 3000+ servers for unblocking Instagram from anywhere and accessing restricted media resources. You can even bypass the Great Wall of China without detection because ExpressVPN has something other VPNs lack; fast and automatic obfuscation.
While other alternatives require OpenVPN protocol, ExpressVPN’s obfuscation works with all servers and protocols without compromising connection speeds. So you can wiggle your way around the strictest VPN firewalls and access restricted music and other resources on Instagram without worries.
Protection Against Tracking
ExpressVPN has a Threat Manager tool that blocks trackers, ads, and malware. However, compared to CyberGhost’s Block Content, it performed dismally. Threat Manager only managed a score of 36/100, which was evident from the number of ads I kept running into when scrolling through my IG timeline.
Furthermore, Threat Manager isn’t available for Android or Windows and only works with Lightway or Automatic protocols.
Privacy
ExpressVPN is equipped with advanced encryption to protect your Instagram account from harm’s way. After all, hacking social media accounts is very common over public Wi-Fi. I’ve been a victim of this once.
Luckily, this encryption hides your traffic, mixing it with others, making it hard for hackers to single yours out.
Furthermore, Instagram users get a Network Lock kill switch that keeps their data safe whenever their VPN connection drops.
A quick IP leak test confirmed ExpressVPN’s ability to safeguard against leaks even when the kill switch kicked into action.
This was less efficient than NordVPN’s double kill switches, though.
Like other VPNs, ExpressVPN also has split tunneling.
I used it only to route my Instagram traffic through the VPN.
The speeds improved, and I could use the other apps as I usually do with regular internet. However, the VPN doesn’t support split tunneling on iOS devices.
Connection Speeds
ExpressVPN is a fast VPN, and I averaged 24 Mbps after several runs using random servers. Watching Instagram reels was smooth without interruptions on my Android phone. And don’t worry about speed throttling from your internet service provider because ExpressVPN doesn’t have bandwidth limits or data caps.
To get the best speeds, ensure you’re on IKEv2 or Lightway-UDP protocols.
Device Compatibility + Pricing
ExpressVPN is compatible with iOS and Android and allows up to 5 device connections: the lowest on this list, just below NordVPN.
The price tag is too high for many people, making it the most expensive VPN on my list. Fortunately, a 30-day money-back guarantee on top of these great discounts should push the price down.
Pros
- Unblocks Instagram anywhere
- Fastest obfuscation
- Robust privacy and security
- Compatible with iOS & Android
- Fast streaming speeds
Cons
- Expensive
- Threat Manager isn’t that effective
- No split tunneling for iOS
4. NordVPN - Reliable Security for Safeguarding Instagram Account
| Location | Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panama | 5500+ | Six | 27 Mbps | Show Offer |
Ability to Unblock Instagram
NordVPN has over 5,500 servers in 59 countries worldwide, the second largest server network after CyberGhost. Whether you’re looking to bypass Instagram in China or unlock restricted music in the UK, NordVPN will get you there.
Like ExpressVPN and Surfshark, NordVPN also offers obfuscation.
The specialized obfuscated servers will hide your VPN traffic when unblocking Instagram, where censorship may be stricter.
Efficient as it may be, NordVPN’s obfuscation has two flaws.
First, it’s the slowest obfuscation compared to ExpressVPN.
I even had trouble loading some Instagram reels.
Second, it can only work with OpenVPN TCP, unlike Camouflage Mode, which works with both OpenVPN protocols.
But as far as beating data packet inspection efforts, its obfuscated servers are steller.
Protection Against Tracking
Like the rest of the premium VPNs covered so far, NordVPN has an adblocker called Threat Protection that also takes care of trackers.
NordVPN registered an AdBlock score of 56/100.
This is lower than CleanWeb but slightly better than Threat Manager.
Many ads filtered through, more than I would’ve liked.
Privacy
NordVPN is among the best when it comes to security and privacy.
It offers Double VPN, an advanced VPN security feature that routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one. This encrypts your data twice.
Additionally, you get AES 256-bit encryption that protects your device from hackers. I comfortably used public Wi-Fi to access my Instagram account, knowing I was covered. It’s a good deterrence against governments and ISPs who may want to interfere with how you use the internet.
NordVPN also has two kill switches, the only one on this list.
An Internet Kill Switch that prevents your device from making unprotected connections if your VPN link is lost.
Then the App Kill Switch disconnects the internet on specific apps when the VPN connection drops. I tried this on Instagram, and the disconnection didn’t affect other apps.
There’s also split tunneling, which you can use to ease the pressure on your VPN to allow it to only focus on Instagram. This leaves regular internet connections for the rest of your apps, boosting overall VPN performance. NordVPN’s split tunneling works on all platforms.
Connection Speeds
NordVPN impressed with average speeds of 27 Mbps, on par with CyberGhost and Surfshark. Watching Instagram videos and uploading high-definition media was easy and seamless. I didn’t worry about data caps or speed throttling, even on mobile data (and my internet service provider is notorious for this).
So what’s the secret to these amazing speeds? First, NordVPN has a protocol called NordLynx, which is an improvement on WireGuard with better speeds and security.
Second, NordVPN is constantly upgrading its servers and expanding them to boost performance and meet the growing pool of users.
Device Compatibility + Pricing
This Instagram VPN is compatible with Android and iOS devices, and you can link up to 6 device connections.
Regarding the price, NordVPN falls between Surfshark and ExpressVPN, meaning it’s reasonably affordable.
Subscribe using this link to get exciting discounts and access Instagram freely.
Pros
- Unblocks Instagram anywhere
- Fast speeds
- Two kill switches
- Compatible with iOS & Android
- Decent ad blocker
Cons
- Slowest obfuscation
- Obfuscation works with OpenVPN TCP only
- Ads still slipped through
5. AtlasVPN - Best Freemium VPN for Unblocking Instagram
| Location | Servers | Connections | Average Speeds | Best Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The United States | 750+ | Unlimited | 18 Mbps | Show Offer |
Ability to Unblock Instagram
AtlasVPN has the smallest server network, with just 750 servers in 43 locations (only 3 available in the free version).
You can still unblock Instagram in most places, even the heavily censored regions like China and Russia. I easily changed my IP address to boost my Instagram shop account and found new followers from other countries.
Unfortunately, like CyberGhost, AtlasVPN doesn’t offer obfuscation.
In its place, I got SafeSwap which rotated my IP address while staying connected to the same VPN server. This makes it hard for Instagram advertisers and third-party trackers to pin your location.
You can also use MultiHop+, designed to rotate your virtual IP between different gateways randomly. Ultimately, your online activity is hidden behind several VPN locations and encryption layers, boosting your anonymity, privacy, and security.
Protection Against Tracking
AtlasVPN is equipped with SafeBrowse Plus. It provides an extra layer of privacy for Instagram users by preventing data brokers from using third-party trackers to collect insights about your Instagram activities.
However, SafeBrowse Plus is only available for premium subscribers.
SafeBrowse Plus registered an AdBlock test score of 66/100.
That’s significantly better than Threat Manager, CleanWeb, and Threat Protection. Still, some ads managed to slip through, but it wasn’t so bad.
Privacy
On the privacy front, AtlasVPN comes with the industry standard 256-bit encryption that handles basic security. I checked my Instagram feed on public Wi-Fi without worries.
Furthermore, this solid VPN comes with a kill switch that temporarily halts access to the internet when your VPN connection drops.
This protects against accidental IP leaks.
The premium version also grants Instagram users split-tunneling.
Connection Speeds
I averaged 18Mbps with AtlasVPN, the slowest so far.
But, that did little to interfere with the VPN’s ability to stream Instagram reals in high definition on my device. The free and premium versions don’t have data caps, but you’ll experience significant lag with the free version since it’s limited to three servers.
Device Compatibility + Pricing
AtlasVPN works on Android and iOS devices, which are the clear favorites for Instagram users. And like Surfshark, AtlasVPN allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. Combine that with the fact it’s the only VPN on this list with a free version, and you have the perfect tool for those on a budget.
If AtlasVPN impresses you so much, get your discounted premium subscription while the offer lasts.
Pros
- Unblocks Instagram anywhere
- It has a free version
- Reliable kill switch
- Compatible with Android & iOS
- Decent ad blocker
Cons
- Lacks obfuscation
- Slowest connection speeds
- The free version is severely limited
- Ads still slipped through
Choosing a VPN for Instagram: Tips to Consider
Yet to make up your mind? Here are things to consider for your VPN for Instagram.
- Ability to Unblock Instagram: The biggest reason anyone needs a VPN for Instagram is to unblock it in censored countries. School networks and workplaces also limit social media sites like Instagram, which are considered distractions. Therefore, the best Instagram VPN should have a wide server network for unlimited access. Obfuscation is another essential feature, as that helps with bypassing VPN firewalls.
- Protection Against Tracking: Instagram is heavy with targeted ads, and this even affects how your timeline looks, especially when you’re on mobile data. A VPN that can block tracking from advertisers can help you experience Instagram without the annoying distractions. It’s never comfortable knowing everything you do is being tracked. So a VPN with a reliable ad and tracking blocker is essential.
- Privacy: Social Media isn’t safe, and a stranger can use the information you post to locate you. This is how stalkers move. The ideal VPN should have advanced security features to prevent access to your IP address and make it hard for people to figure out where you are. You also need a VPN with proper encryption to stop hackers from accessing your account, especially when accessing Instagram through public Wi-Fi. It should also come with a kill switch for extra security.
- Connection Speeds: Loading high-quality pictures or streaming Instagram reels requires fast internet speeds. When using Instagram or other streaming services, you need the fastest VPN speeds without buffering every few minutes. It should also bypass speed throttling and data caps.
- Device Compatibility + Pricing: Instagram is mainly used on smartphones. So the ideal VPN should be compatible with Android and iOS devices. The number of device connections allowed is also significant. The higher the number, the better. Finally, affordability is equally essential. The VPN should offer great value for money. Not too expensive with the ability to unblock other restricted social media sites and streaming platforms.
How to Change Your Location on Instagram?
- Download, install and launch CyberGhost.
- Choose a virtual server from any location.
- Launch Instagram. Every post you upload with the VPN active will show details of the virtual server.
How Does Instagram Know Your Location?
When you take a photo with the Instagram app, it automatically records and stores your location data. This information is known as EXIF data, and it includes things like the date and time the photo was taken, the camera used, and the GPS coordinates of where the photo was taken.
If your location services are turned on for Instagram, then your GPS coordinates are automatically added to the EXIF data every time you post a new photo.
If you want to share your photos with the world but don’t want Instagram to know your exact location, there are a few things you can do.
- Turn off location services for Instagram in your phone’s settings to prevent the app from automatically adding GPS coordinates to your photos.
- Share photos without location data by selecting the “Private” option when posting them. However, your photo won’t be visible on maps or search results.
How to Access Instagram Music From Anywhere?
Instagram music is a new feature that allows internet users to add music to their posts. However, some users can’t access this feature due to geographic Instagram restrictions. To access Instagram Music with a VPN, follow these steps:
- Download and install a VPN on your device. I recommend CyberGhost.
- Launch the VPN and choose a server in the region where the music you want is available.
- Launch Instagram and search for the music to add to your post.
Can’t Change Instagram Location With a VPN?
If you’re having trouble connecting to Instagram with a VPN, try the following solutions.
- Check if you have the latest version of the app.
- If you’re using an iOS device, check that Location Services is turned on for Instagram.
- If you’re using an Android device, check that your location mode is active.
- Try turning your VPN off and on again.
- Check if Instagram is down through the Downdetector site.
- Restart your device.
- Contact your VPN’s customer support.
FAQ
Can a Free VPN Bypass Instagram Blocks?
A free VPN service like AtlasVPN can bypass Instagram blocks.
However, you’ll not get the same experience a premium VPN offers.
Plus, free VPN providers aren’t entirely secure; most sell your data to third parties to make money. Free VPNs also have dismal speeds due to limited server locations and network congestion. They also lack important security features like ad blockers or obfuscation for bypassing Instagram blocks. If you can afford it, go for a premium VPN like Surfshark.
Is Using a VPN for Instagram Illegal?
Using a VPN app for Instagram is not illegal. In fact, there are many good reasons to use a VPN for Instagram. A VPN can help you unblock Instagram abroad and keep you safe and secure on any network.
There aren’t any documented incidents of an Instagram user getting banned for using a VPN.
Does Instagram Block VPNs?
Instagram does not block VPNs. However, using a VPN may cause issues with accessing certain features on the site, such as loading images or videos, depending on the VPN you’re using. Additionally, some VPNs may be detected and blocked by Instagram if they are used to spam or engage in other malicious activity.
Therefore, watch how you use a VPN with Instagram to avoid flagging suspicion to your account.
Does Instagram Track You?
Instagram tracks your location by default whenever you open the app.
If you share your location with a post or story, anyone who can see that can also see your location. You can turn off location services for the Instagram app in your device’s settings.
Instagram also collects data about you from third-party sources, such as advertisers, who may share information about your activity on other websites and apps associated with Instagram. Then Instagram uses this data to show you ads that are more relevant to you.
What’s the Best VPN for Instagram Music?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for Instagram music, offering high speeds, excellent security and privacy, and unlimited bandwidth.
It also has a wide range of servers perfect for unblocking Instagram even in the most heavily restricted regions. Additionally, CyberGhost is compatible with Android and iOS systems that support the Instagram app.
What’s the Best VPN for Instagram Reels?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for Instagram reels because it encrypts your traffic and protects your privacy while using reels. CyberGhost also provides access to fast servers worldwide to enjoy the smooth streaming of your favorite songs.
Additionally, It offers a kill switch that instantly disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is lost, preventing any data leaks.
Finally, it has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring none of your online activities are tracked or monitored.
What’s the Best VPN for Instagram on iPhone?
CyberGhost is the best VPN for Instagram on iPhone because it’s compatible with iOS and encrypts your traffic, ensuring your data is safe from prying eyes.
This is important when using a public Wi-Fi network where third parties could intercept your data.
Furthermore, CyberGhost offers a dedicated server for streaming which means you get a faster and more reliable connection. This is important when streaming music on Instagram, as a slow connection can result in buffering and interruptions.
Can I Use a VPN on Instagram?
You can use a VPN on Instagram. A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another location, which makes it appear as if you are accessing Instagram from that location.
This can be useful for accessing geo-blocked content or bypassing censorship restrictions. However, be careful not to break Instagram’s terms of use while at it.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, unblocking Instagram or accessing restricted resources through a VPN isn’t complicated. Every VPN outlined above is simple enough, even for a newbie.
That said, CyberGhost is still my top pick as it meets all the critical needs of the average Instagram user.
If that’s not your cup of tea, you can always choose to go with Surfshark, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or AtlasVPN.
Remember to get your CyberGhost subscription through this link to grab exciting discounts before this offer runs out.
Protect private web traffic from snooping, interference, and censorship. All plans are covered by a no-hassle 100% money-back guarantee for your first 45 days of service.
