Chances are you’re reading this guide because you’re into OSRS botting. But you should know that botting in Runescape should never be done without a VPN.
However, the truth is that very few VPNs can evade Jagex’s highly aggressive anti-VPN systems. You’ll want the best VPN for Runescape you can find – and that VPN is Surfshark.
I’ve been playing Runescape for as long as I can remember, working tirelessly on improving my character’s skills, stats, and bank balance.
Even though I like the grind, Surfshark has been the secret to my OSRS success. It helped me try many OSRS bots without ever putting me in danger of getting banned.
So, if you keep reading, you’ll find plenty of tips to achieve the same. Of course, Surfshark isn’t your only option.
Based on my hands-on experience and months of testing VPNs, I also recommend NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
Top 3 VPNs for Runescape (November, 2024)
NordVPN offers a sizeable server fleet that helps improve and enhance your OSRS gameplay while also giving you an option to acquire a dedicated IP, which is what enables you to bypass OSRS’ detection mechanisms.
Surfshark is a relatively young yet hugely powerful VPN that uses innovative technology to “rotate” your IP address, which allows it to bypass Jagex’s anti-VPN mechanisms without the risk of getting banned from OSRS.
ExpressVPN is an extremely capable all-in-one VPN that obfuscates your incoming and outgoing Web data using its 3,000+ servers, ensuring your OSRS botting activities remain hidden in the best way possible.
Jagex, the creator of Runescape, is notorious for battling against VPNs. They built sophisticated mechanisms that hunt OSRS players who use botting scripts.
However, aside from stabilizing your Web connection and making OSRS perform better overall, a VPN will hide your Web traffic, ensuring your botting activities are away from Jagex’s eyes.
In other words, I searched for a VPN with thousands of servers, which helps you get fast speeds without any throttling.
Having that many VPN servers also allows you to switch between OSRS (in-game) servers on the fly, revealing new types of Runescape worlds.
Then, I also searched for a VPN that offers gaming-friendly protocols, DDoS protection, low latency, and various protections against data leaks.
With that said, you won’t make a mistake no matter which VPN from this article you pick.
However, it’s worth knowing about their subtleties, helping you pinpoint a VPN aligned with your OSRS gameplay style.
Keep reading for the details!
Short on Time? – These Are The Best VPNs for Runescape!
Can’t wait to upgrade your character’s skills? Looking for a quick way to your character’s wealth?
If you’re in a rush, here’s a brief overview of the best Runescape VPNs:
- Surfshark – Best VPN Overall for Runescape & OSRS Botting
- NordVPN – Highly Advanced Security & Data Leak Protection
- ExpressVPN – All-In-One VPN Offering Ultra-Fast Performance
- CyberGhost – Gaming-Friendly VPN Servers
- Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN With In-Depth Customization
As you can see, you have many solid options in front of you.
So, how do you decide which is truly the best VPN for Runescape, aligned with your needs?
I’m here to help you shortlist your options, so join me for the rest of this guide!
The Best VPNs for Runescape – In-Depth Look!
Ready to dive deep into finding the best VPN for Runescape?
Willing to learn how to safely bot in OSRS without getting banned?
I’m sure you are – and that you can’t wait! So, let’s get to it!
1. Surfshark – Best VPN Overall for Runescape & OSRS Botting
Surfshark is the youngest VPN brand in this article. However, it’s also the best option Runescape fans have at their disposal.
First, let’s talk about Surfshark’s performance, which is astonishingly fast.
As you’re about to see, this VPN is already optimized for gaming.
Below, you can see my baseline speed (download: 487.18 Mbps / upload: 48.50 Mbps). As you can also see, my ping value is at 8ms.
And now, here are the numbers Surfshark gave me after connecting to a nearby VPN server.
My ping went up by 3ms – a barely noticeable increase. And when it comes to my download and upload speeds, they went down just a tiny bit.
Trust me; those results are not something you’ll find elsewhere.
I’ll also mention that Surfshark offers three VPN protocols – IKEv2, WireGuard, and OpenVPN.
I got the results you see above using the IKEv2 protocol on my Mac.
That one comes as the default protocol (chosen by Surfshark based on my location and my connection’s parameters).
In general, IKEv2 isn’t the safest option – but it’s more than safe for hiding OSRS botting activities (thanks to Surfshark’s highly optimized servers).
And, as you already know, it’s incredibly fast.
However, I got similar results with WireGuard as well.
That tells me Surfshark comes with highly optimized servers, ensuring you get high-end encryption, data anonymization, and fast performance – crucial when playing online games such as Runescape.
Of course, to get the fastest possible performance, you need access to a nearby VPN server.
Remember that using a remote server will force your data to travel more.
Differently said, you’ll introduce more noticeable latency, negatively affecting your Runescape gameplay.
Speaking of Surfshark’s servers, this VPN offers a medium-sized network with more than 3,000 servers in around 65 countries.
That’s more than enough for most Runescape players, though all my other recommendations have more extensive networks.
However, it’s essential to know how Surfshark uses that network. It has a unique and highly innovative feature that sets it apart from my other recommendations – Nexus.
Thanks to Nexus, Surfshark uses multiple servers to route your traffic. You still get to pick a single endpoint for your data (a VPN server in a specific country).
However, Surfshark will use multiple servers, changing your IP address every few minutes. That’s what makes Surfshark the best VPN for Runescape.
Using the ‘Nexus’ feature (remember you’ll need to enable the IP rotation feature manually via Surfshark’s settings), you’ll evade Jagex’s detection mechanisms.
Therefore, if you plan to automate your actions in Runescape using bots, I am sure you’ll appreciate Surfshark’s power.
Speaking of OSRS botting, numerous Runescape players claim that private IP addresses are the only way to bot safely.
Based on my experience, a private (dedicated) IP can undoubtedly help, but it’s not a requirement.
If having a dedicated IP is a must for you, know that Surfshark doesn’t exactly offer that perk. However, it comes with the next best thing.
More precisely, this VPN offers a small group of servers based on static IP addresses.
You’ll find those in the following countries: Germany, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In other words, you get the same IP address every time you connect to the same server.
When it comes to other essential VPN features, Surfshark offers both a kill switch (Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS) and split tunneling (Windows and Android).
Using its kill switch, you can ensure that your data won’t leak to Jagex when playing OSRS, which is a handy way to avoid a ban.
And when it comes to split tunneling, you can set up Surfshark to create two tunnels.
One could be a VPN tunnel for your Runescape-related traffic.
The second could be for your “regular” data, not protected by the VPN.
Lastly, Surfshark is a hugely affordable VPN. Its monthly plan is on par with its competitors.
However, its long-term plans are among the most affordable VPN subscriptions.
Pros
- Great even for first-timers
- Ultra-strong encryption and protocols
- Lightning-fast performance
- Highly suitable for gaming
- 24/7-available customer support
- 30-day money-back policy
Cons
- Medium-sized server network
- Doesn’t offer dedicated IPs
- Limited fine-tuning
2. NordVPN – Highly Advanced Security & Data Leak Protection
NordVPN is one of the most recognizable and trustworthy VPN brands out there.
There’s a massive list of reasons why I recommend NordVPN for Runescape.
Among those, the VPN’s performance is the biggest reason, and here’s why.
First, I’ll remind you of my baseline download (487.18 Mbps) and upload (48.50 Mbps) speeds. Also, don’t forget that my ping value is at 8ms.
Once I started routing my data through NordVPN’s servers, my download speed slowed down.
However, my upload speed practically remained the same.
Most importantly (we’re talking about playing an online game over a VPN, after all), my ping value never changed.
That means NordVPN has done plenty to optimize its server network. I have to say that I’ve expected that since the VPN comes with “colocated” servers.
During the last year, NordVPN has replaced rented servers with owned servers.
By owning their server network, NordVPN’s team implemented deeper security- and performance-related optimizations, which has started to show.
Regarding NordVPN’s server network, expect to find around 5,000 servers in 60 countries.
So, there’s a considerable number of servers (which equals fast performance) in a somewhat limited number of countries.
If you decide to use this VPN for your Runescape sessions, I recommend checking NordVPN’s server network beforehand.
You’ll want to ensure that NordVPN offers servers in your country or neighboring countries so that you get the lowest possible ping and latency.
Furthermore, don’t forget that NordVPN allows you to optimize your VPN connection.
With NordLynx, the VPN’s proprietary protocol, you’ll get the best speed. There’s also IKEv2/IPsec, highly suitable for Runescape sessions.
You’ll also find OpenVPN, which is great for protecting your privacy but could limit your connection’s overall performance.
If you want to enhance your Runescape botting techniques, NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses.
You can “buy” a dedicated IP associated with the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Even though NordVPN’s dedicated IPs are a handy perk, they are mostly useful for users across Europe and North America.
If you reside in an Asian country (or elsewhere), a different VPN might be better, performance-wise.
NordVPN also has more advanced features, like a kill switch, split tunneling, and DDoS protection.
The VPN’s ultra-capable kill switch is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. However, NordVPN’s split tunneling is limited to Windows and Android only.
Lastly, NordVPN is on par with its competitors if you’re looking to pay monthly.
However, I strongly recommend checking its long-term plans, which often bring interesting extras as well.
Want to secure the lowest price possible? Check my exclusive NordVPN discount here!
Pros
- Highly suitable for gaming
- Dedicated IPs on offer
- Modern-looking VPN apps
- Over 5,000 servers
- 24/7-available customer support
- 30-day money-back policy
Cons
- Medium-wide server coverage
- Limited fine-tuning
3. ExpressVPN – All-In-One VPN Offering Ultra-Fast Performance
ExpressVPN is one of the rare all-in-one VPNs that are incredibly simple to use.
It comes with a mobile-like interface, taking you to the deepest corners of its app in just a few clicks.
However, just because it looks simple doesn’t mean it’s any less powerful than my other recommendations.
In fact, it comes with plenty of unique stuff.
First things first, let’s talk about ExpressVPN’s performance.
You can check my baseline stats below, which I got after testing my connection without the VPN running.
And now, here are the numbers ExpressVPN gave me once I connected to its ‘Smart Location’ server (letting the VPN connect me to the fastest server available).
You can see that ExpressVPN made my connection a bit slower. The results I got are marginally lower than Surfshark’s and NordVPN’s.
However, there’s something important to keep in mind here.
Surfshark’s and NordVPN’s results are based on using the IKEv2 protocol. ExpressVPN’s results came after testing Lightway, as per the VPN’s recommendation.
Lightway is ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, and it’s exponentially more powerful than IKEv2.
In simpler terms, ExpressVPN gave me stronger encryption and more robust data handling without affecting my download/upload speeds in a prominent way.
As a result, my Runescape sessions were more secure, ensuring that my VPN data evaded Jagex’s VPN detection systems.
Aside from Lightway (which I strongly recommend using), ExpressVPN also comes with IKEv2 and OpenVPN. You’re free to switch between those at any moment.
However, the VPN can also decide which protocol is best for you based on your location and network connection type.
Another strong side of ExpressVPN is its server network. Expect to get 3,000+ servers in over 90 countries and 160+ server locations.
So, finding a nearby server will never be an issue.
On top of that, ExpressVPN comes with a unique feature to help you find the best server – Speed Test.
You can access it by clicking on the hamburger button (top-left corner of ExpressVPN’s home screen).
Then, pick ‘Speed Test,’ and ExpressVPN will let you test its entire network of servers. It takes a couple of minutes until ExpressVPN runs tests across its 3,000+ servers.
Then, you can sort them by their download speed, overall speed index, and latency.
That means finding a secure and fast-performing server for Runescape is a one-step process.
ExpressVPN also has a kill switch, available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and routers.
Besides that, its split tunneling is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and routers.
Unlike my previous recommendations for the best Runescape VPNs, ExpressVPN covers more platforms with those two features.
Just like any other VPN, this one also has downsides. The most significant limitation is that dedicated IPs are not available.
ExpressVPN explains the lack of dedicated IP by pointing to its privacy policy.
It’s based on shared IP addresses as a way to ensure no data is logged. That’s great for your privacy but can be a limiting factor for Runescape botting.
Another downside is ExpressVPN’s price. It’s among the most expensive VPNs, especially if you’re looking to pay monthly.
You can mitigate that by picking a long-term plan.
Don’t forget to check for the biggest discount using my exclusive sign-up link.
Pros
- Fully-automated VPN service
- Over 3,000 servers in total
- Works on any platform/device
- Kill switch and split tunneling on board
- 24/7-available customer support
- 30-day money-back policy
Cons
- Limited customization options
- Dedicated IPs are not an option
- A bit slower than its competitors
4. CyberGhost– Gaming-Friendly VPN Servers
CyberGhost is yet another highly reputable and ultra-capable VPN service known for offering gaming-friendly servers.
In fact, this is the only VPN on my list offering such functionality (available on Windows only).
However, even if you don’t play Runescape on Windows, CyberGhost is still an excellent option.
Even its “standard” servers do a fantastic job of providing fast connections, minimal latency, and high-end privacy.
First, let’s talk about those fast connections. Just below, you can see my baseline data (the speed of my Web connection without CyberGhost running in the background).
And now, here’s what I got once I enabled CyberGhost and connected to a nearby server.
Aside from keeping my download and upload speeds practically intact, CyberGhost also kept my ping under control.
I’ll remind you that I used a “standard” VPN server. Therefore, using CyberGhost’s gaming servers is not mandatory to get the fastest possible speed.
In comparison to other VPNs found in this guide, CyberGhost performed better while keeping my ping value lower than its competitors.
Very few VPNs can outmatch CyberGhost, except Surfshark and Private Internet Access, with marginally better speeds.
Also, I tested CyberGhost using WireGuard (which I strongly recommend using for encrypting OSRS botting sessions).
Based on your gaming platform of choice, you’ll also get OpenVPN and IKEv2.
CyberGhost’s level of flexibility goes beyond its VPN protocols. That’s because it offers more than 7,500 servers in around 90 countries.
So, if you pick WireGuard and connect to a nearby server, you can get the same level of performance as I got.
I’d also like to mention that CyberGhost offers dedicated IP addresses.
Those can be associated with servers in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and France.
That’s similar to what NordVPN offers, leaving you without too many options for countries in Asia and other continents.
In that sense, Surfshark might serve you better, as it covers countries like Japan and Singapore.
However, unlike other VPNs, CyberGhost claims to bring truly anonymous dedicated IP addresses.
This VPN uses a unique token-based system to avoid knowing anything about your IP address.
You get a token, which you can redeem in any CyberGhost app.
And, of course, that system goes hand-in-hand with this VPN’s strict no-logs policy.
However, if you lose your token, CyberGhost won’t be able to generate it again, so make sure to store it somewhere safe.
CyberGhost also has a very capable kill switch. On some platforms (like Windows and Android), you can enable/disable that feature manually.
However, when it comes to other platforms (like macOS and iOS, for example), CyberGhost’s kill switch works in the background.
That means CyberGhost’s kill switch will activate when needed.
If you lose your VPN connection for whatever reason, the VPN will prevent you from a data leak.
I am sure you realize the importance of that – especially when botting in Runescape.
You’ll also see that CyberGhost advertises split tunneling on its website, which is available on Windows and Android.
It’s not present on macOS and iOS, which could be a downside if you play OSRS on those platforms.
Lastly, I will also mention that CyberGhost is one of the most affordable VPNs – but only if you pick a long-term plan.
On top of that, you get a 45-day money-back guarantee.
If you’re after the lowest price possible, use my sign-up link.
Pros
- Absolutely massive server network
- Speedy and stable performance
- Strong security features
- Dedicated IPs on offer
- Fully-automated kill switch
- 24/7-available customer support
- 45-day money-back policy
Cons
- Gaming servers available on Windows only
- Split tunneling available on Android only
- Limited options for fine-tuning
5. Private Internet Access – Advanced VPN With In-Depth Customization
The final contender on my list of the best VPNs for Runescape is – Private Internet Access.
I wanted to end my list of recommendations with something ultra-powerful, which is the reason I chose to highlight PIA.
I’ll introduce you to this VPN by talking about its performance first. Here are my Web connection’s baseline stats.
And now, here are the numbers Private Internet Access gave me.
As you can see, there’s barely any slowdown. Impressive, right?
PIA gave me extra-fast download and upload speeds while barely affecting my connection’s ping and latency.
However, I had to turn to PIA’s settings and fine-tune my VPN tunnel to get to that point.
Private Internet Access gives you the freedom to do anything you want with your VPN connection.
For example, you can switch between different protocols, such as WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec – just like you would expect from practically any VPN.
However, you can do much more than just pick a VPN protocol. You can optimize how each of those works.
You can play around with different types of encryption, different data transport types, set a custom port, and even change the size of data packets, among many other tweaks.
I am sure that sounds impressive and maybe a bit frightening. Well, that’s exactly why I recommend PIA to more advanced users.
If you’re not familiar with the technical terms I mentioned above, you might get confused by PIA’s interface.
Don’t get me wrong; PIA still works “out of the box.” However, unless you dig into its settings, you’ll most likely encounter relatively slow performance.
That will limit your Runescape gameplay experience, especially if you plan to use automated scripts.
In terms of other advanced features, PIA comes with a high-end Internet kill switch.
That feature is available on practically every platform supported by the VPN, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and even iOS/iPadOS.
More precisely, there are two types of kill switches. One of those acts when needed.
For example, when your VPN connection drops (the same feature is offered by all other VPNs in this guide).
However, there’s also an advanced kill switch, which blocks your traffic even when the VPN is turned off.
PIA’s split tunneling is there as well, available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. This feature also comes with in-depth customization.
You can pick individual applications or IP addresses and then decide whether those applications/IPs use your VPN or your regular data tunnel.
To top it all off, Private Internet Access also offers dedicated IP addresses as an add-on.
Those can be assigned to servers in the following countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and Australia.
PIA’s dedicated IP addresses share the same infrastructure as the rest of PIA’s servers.
You’ll get 10 Gbps bare-metal servers, unlimited bandwidth, and a strict no-logs privacy policy.
I also shouldn’t forget to mention that PIA offers the largest network of bare-metal servers out there. You’ll get to choose from 30,000+ servers found in 84 countries.
It’s also important to note that PIA’s servers are spread across the entire world evenly, so you’ll always find a nearby server.
Surprisingly enough, PIA is among the most affordable VPN services.
This VPN has an enticing long-term plan that often includes extras, like several months added to your first billing period as a welcome gift.
Make sure to check for PIA’s lowest price by clicking HERE.
Pros
- Unprecedented level of customization
- Extremely fast and stable speeds
- Advanced kill switch
- Split tunneling is on offer
- Dedicated IPs are on offer
- 24/7-available customer support
- 30-day money-back policy
Cons
- Can be confusing for inexperienced VPN users
- Best performance possible via fine-tuning only
- Heavy use of VPN terminology
How to Choose the Best VPN for Runescape?
There’s truly a lot to consider when searching for the best VPN for Runescape.
That’s especially true if you plan on using Runescape bots, as hiding your actions behind a VPN becomes imperative in that case.
So, if you’ve been wondering what makes a good Runescape VPN, what kinds of features to look for, and how to find the best deal around, I am here to help.
Below, I will focus on the most important features that separate great VPNs from mediocre ones.
So, here’s my complete buying guide for finding a Runescape VPN aligned with all your needs.
Narrow Down Your Options Quickly – Using This Checklist!
The following checklist focuses on what truly matters when choosing a VPN for Runescape.
Use it to narrow down your selection of VPNs, and you’ll be a huge step closer to finding a VPN that works specifically for you.
#1: Native Software Across the Board
Runescape runs on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
To enhance your gameplay while being protected by VPN, you need a VPN that runs on all those operating systems.
On top of that, you need to check what kind of user interface you’ll get.
My recommendation for first-time VPN users is to opt for something featuring a simple design, modern-looking, and fully automated.
In that sense, Surfshark should be a perfect pick.
I am also a big fan of ExpressVPN, which is a one-click solution.
I’ll also advise you not to trust any marketing messages, which are often misleading in the world of VPNs.
Even if VPNs say they work on specific platforms, they might offer complicated installation methods based on manual configuration.
You’ll want to avoid that.
#2: Widescale Network & Strategically Placed Servers
VPNs offering thousands of servers might sound very enticing. However, you need to pay attention to the number of countries they cover.
That’s especially true for Runescape fans, as the game offers dedicated servers in specific countries.
Most of those are located across the United States, Europe, and Australia.
So, based on which server(s) you typically use, go for a VPN with many servers in that specific country/region.
There’s also another reason I recommend paying attention to server networks.
Runescape controls its servers’ performance, allowing up to 1,500 players to be connected at once to a single world.
That’s why server latency and your physical distance play a significant role in whether Runescape will connect you to your preferred world.
However, if you connect to a fast-performing VPN server, your chances of establishing a successful connection to a specific Runescape server go way up.
So, it does matter to pick a VPN offering servers in countries/locations you target while playing Runescape.
#3: Gaming-Friendly (& Customizable) VPN Protocols
All of the VPNs found in this article feature extra-strong VPN protocols.
That means they all can create extra-strong VPN tunnels that reroute your traffic, free of data leaks.
However, in terms of playing Runescape, you don’t need the strongest possible encryption.
That’s because high-end protocols such as OpenVPN are typically coupled with AES-256 encryption.
That kind of obfuscation is excellent for privacy. However, it’s not so great for performance, which means you’ll feel a major impact on your Web connection speed.
So, before deciding which VPN you’ll use for Runescape, check what VPN protocols you’ll get.
Modern VPNs feature the WireGuard protocol, which seems perfect for Runescape as it brings low latency and fast speed.
The best Runescape VPNs featuring WireGuard are Surfshark and NordVPN.
NordVPN comes with a custom version of WireGuard, called NordLynx. Based on my experience, that protocol works excellent when using highly remote servers.
Some VPNs offer proprietary protocols, which make their offers unique. One such VPN is ExpressVPN, featuring Lightway.
Like WireGuard, Lightway brings high-end security (great for OSRS botting) and fast performance.
#4: High-End Gaming-Friendly VPN Features
In my guide to the best VPNs for gaming, you can see that I recommend NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark.
You’ll find those three VPNs in this guide, which is not a coincidence.
However, it’s worth taking a deeper look at those VPNs (and others from this guide), especially if you want gaming-friendly features tailored to your Runescape gameplay style.
For example, Surfshark offers an innovative technology that uses its entire server network to route your Web traffic.
Called ‘Nexus,’ that technology changes your IP address periodically, which makes it very suitable for botting-related activities.
NordVPN is also an excellent pick for gaming.
Unlike Surfshark, NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses – useful if you want to take that route for OSRS botting.
It also brings DDoS protection via all its servers, giving you an extra layer of security.
Aside from bringing a gaming-friendly proprietary protocol (Lightway), ExpressVPN also offers DDoS protection via all servers, which are present in 90+ countries.
It also comes with solid and stable performance and, since recently – protects you against online threats.
#5: Money-Back Policy Without Gimmicks
It’s necessary to spend your money wisely. That especially applies if you’re looking for a great deal, which means you’re likely to invest in a long-term VPN subscription.
That’s the reason you need to pay attention to money-back policies.
I’ve made it easier for you to pick a safe-to-purchase VPN for Runescape by listing the most reputable options only.
Sadly, that is not the case with all VPNs. Many say they offer money-back policies, only to refuse to return your money if you ask for it.
You need to read the fine print as well, which is often riddled with peculiar legal conditions.
All VPNs found in this guide give you at least 30 days to change your mind. You don’t even have to provide a reason if you decide to cancel your VPN subscription.
However, CyberGhost stands out, giving you 45 days to change your mind instead.
Do Free VPNs Work for Runescape?
You won’t find a single free VPN that can be used for gaming. Therefore – no, free VPNs don’t work for Runescape. There are many reasons to avoid free VPNs.
Most importantly, they limit your Web connection speed in such a dramatic way that you won’t even get to browse the Web.
Those free-of-charge VPNs that give you unrestricted speeds will limit your bandwidth to a couple of hundred megabytes per day (at best).
I will remind you that Jagex isn’t so friendly towards VPN services.
Therefore, you run the risk of getting caught by using a free VPN that brings low-end encryption.
Consequently, you expose your account to a possible (and permanent) ban.
How to Use a VPN for Runescape Without Getting Banned?
As I mentioned above, Jagex (the company behind Runescape) is quite aggressive towards detecting VPN services and banning players.
So, before you pick and start using a VPN, keep that in mind – especially if you’re into OSRS botting.
Still, using a VPN for OSRS botting is possible.
Moreover, a capable VPN and a little bit of caution will help you use a VPN for Runescape without any risk of getting caught or banned.
With that said, here are some helpful tips on utilizing a Runescape VPN without getting banned.
Step #1: Use a Proven & Capable VPN Service
Not all VPNs are created equal. It pays off to spend time researching, as that’s the only way to ensure you’ll end up with a VPN that safeguards your privacy.
I am mentioning safeguarding your privacy, as that’s the most important thing when using a VPN to play Runescape.
Whether you use bots or not, you’ll want a VPN that hides the fact that you’re using the VPN in the first place.
That’s why you need a VPN with a high-end protocol, such as OpenVPN or WireGuard (both of which are on offer by Surfshark).
Proprietary protocols like NordLynx (NordVPN) and Lightway (ExpressVPN) are also reliable.
Every dollar you can spend on a Runescape VPN will be a dollar well spent. Free VPNs are out of the question, as well as lesser-known VPNs that come at bargain prices.
More often than not, those VPNs will expose your location, leading you to a possible ban. So, invest in a VPN that truly has the power to upgrade and improve your overall experience of playing Runescape.
Step #2: Enable Your VPN’s Internet Kill Switch
The last thing you want to experience while playing Runescape is a data leak. If your data leaks through your VPN tunnel at any moment, that would be a clear indication for Jagex that you’re using a VPN.
In other words, a data leak is perhaps the fastest gateway to getting a Runescape ban. VPNs employ all kinds of data protection systems, ensuring the integrity of their VPN tunnels.
Aside from those (mostly fully automated) measures, there’s something you can do yourself. Enable your VPN’s Internet kill switch.
All of the VPNs found in this guide feature kill switch mechanisms. More importantly, they all offer simple ways to enable or disable those mechanisms on the fly.
To enable your VPN’s kill switch, navigate to its settings. You should find a switch there that enables/disables that feature.
Once you enable it, your device’s Internet access will stop if your VPN connection drops.
By blocking your device’s Internet access when you lose VPN connectivity, your VPN will prevent your actual data from leaking on the Web.
Or, more precisely, Jagex will never see that you’re hiding behind a VPN.
Step #3: Ensure No Data (IP) Leaks Happen
I spent the entire previous segment talking about preventing data leaks. However, the truth is that a kill switch protects you only when your VPN connection drops.
If your VPN tunnel isn’t set up correctly, leaks can occur even while your VPN connection is active. So, to check for active leaks, connect to a VPN server.
Then, visit IPLeak.net using any Web browser. Give that website a few moments until it runs all kinds of IP, WebRTC, DNS, and Geolocation tests.
Then, check if the results of those tests point to your chosen VPN server. Differently said, nothing should point back to your actual location.
If you connect to a VPN server in your own country, it might be hard to check for data leaks.
In that case, I recommend running two IPLeak.net tests – without and with an active VPN connection (letting you compare the results of those two tests).
Step #4: Invest in a Dedicated (Private) IP Address
Many Runescape players swear by using a dedicated IP address for botting.
In theory, that makes perfect sense, as using a dedicated IP can hide that you’re using a VPN.
I have to say that I’ve had plenty of luck with using a dedicated IP for OSRS botting. That became my go-to strategy during some lengthy travels when I visited several countries in a short time span.
I wanted to make it look like I played Runescape from a single location, which is why I used a dedicated (VPN) IP address.
When choosing a VPN for a dedicated IP, make sure to pick a reputable VPN service.
Even though you’ll have your own IP address, you’ll still use your VPN’s infrastructure. That means you’ll be limited by its protocols and encryption (which must be top-notch).
Speaking of dedicated IPs, I have to recommend NordVPN.
You can choose from five countries (the United States, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom), all of which are popular locations for Runescape servers.
If you want to learn more about NordVPN’s dedicated IPs, I offer a dedicated guide about buying and connecting to NordVPN’s dedicated IPs.
Step #5: Use Bots in Moderation
My final suggestion is to use OSRS bots in moderation. Even if you hide behind the most powerful VPN, your botting actions might reveal what you’re doing.
It’s true that a VPN will hide your location and your Web data. That means you’ll do your OSRS botting using an encrypted connection, which will hide you from Jagex’s eyes.
However, what you won’t hide is what you actually do in the game.
For example, let’s say that you use scripts for mining. You’ll find many OSRS bots focused on extracting resources, which you can then forge into tools and weapons or sell to earn money.
Some Runescape players are more skilled than others. Or, at least they have faster reflexes, which allows them to mine at a faster rate.
However, if you employ an ultra-powerful bot that works faster than even the most skilled player ever could, that would raise a red flag.
I’ve seen many tips online on using bots for a couple of hours only.
And also, many say that you should use OSRS bots/scripts on the weekends, as that’s when Jagex’s human moderators don’t work. I agree with those tips.
So, my strong advice is to be moderate regarding the types of bots you use and how long you use them.
Does Using a VPN on Runescape Get You Banned?
In simple terms – yes, using a VPN for botting in Runescape can get you banned. Jagex makes that very clear in its Terms of Use.
What’s even more frightening is that Jagex notes that it employs a team whose sole mission is to identify when players are cheating.
If you’re caught, your account can be banned even if that’s the first time you’ve broken Runescape’s rules. With that said, I don’t encourage botting.
However, I also understand that spending days grinding for materials and funds can be VERY tiresome (tiresome enough to make you think of quitting Runescape).
So, if you decide to use bots or macros in Runescape, ensure to do it properly. I made sure to provide you with some hands-on tips above.
Does Botting Lead to a Permanent Ban in Runescape?
If you check online, you’ll find many individuals saying that a permanent Runescape ban is set in stone.
However, you’ll also find reports of how people convinced Jagex to unban their accounts.
In some cases, doing something simple as sending a polite email to Jagex can unban your Runescape account.
As you can see, even if you’re caught botting, all hope is never lost.
How to Get a Runescape Membership With a VPN?
Using a VPN to buy a Runescape membership at a reduced rate is possible.
In fact, that’s how you can save quite a lot, especially when purchasing a long-term Runescape membership.
To give you an idea of the current situation, I’ll compare the prices of short- and long-term Runescape membership plans in the US and Mexico.
| Runescape Membership | United States | Mexico |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Month Plan | $10.99 | MXN 122.99 (~$6.00) |
| 3-Month Plan | $29.99 | MXN 349.99 (~$17.10) |
| 6-Month Plan | $54.99 | MXN 619.99 (~$30.30) |
| 12-Month Plan | $99.99 | MXN 1,149.99 (~$56.00) |
It’s obvious which country has access to more affordable Runescape memberships. As you can see, we’re not talking about a subtle price difference, either.
So, here’s how to get the best deal:
- Launch your VPN application and connect to a server at a location where Runescape offers cheaper plans, like Mexico. Runescape’s prices can vary depending on currency fluctuations, so check which country offers the cheapest plans first.
- Use a Web browser to visit the OSRS Runescape website. I recommend using your browser’s Incognito mode (also known as Private, InPrivate, or Private Browsing). Doing so will force Runescape’s site not to log any cache data, preventing data leaks.
- Click ‘Become a Member‘ on the OSRS Runescape website. Once you access your account (and pass Runescape’s always-annoying CAPTCHA check), the website will detect your location. You should see the available plans in your local currency (based on your chosen VPN server).
- Pick any membership and proceed to the finish line. Once you get to the payment step, you can choose to pay using a payment card or via PayPal. Feel free to use the payment card option, as that one isn’t geo-restricted. In other words, you can pay for a Mexican OSRS membership using an American credit card.
That’s it! As soon as your payment clears, your chosen membership will become active. However, there is one crucial thing to keep in mind.
As mentioned many times above, Jagex employs rigorous anti-VPN and anti-cheating mechanisms.
With that said, it’s crucial to access your Runescape account only from the country you used when signing up for your membership.
So, if you’re paying in Mexican pesos for your Runescape membership, never use anything other than Mexican VPN servers when playing Runescape.
FAQ
Is It Legal to Use a VPN for Botting in Runescape?
If you decide to use a VPN for OSRS botting, know that there aren’t any legal consequences if you’re caught cheating.
However, OSRS botting is considered against Runescape’s rules – and Jagex is very clear about that.
More precisely, Jagex employs technologies that monitor your gameplay. Since botting is considered cheating, the same applies to using a VPN.
As a result, Jagex can ban your OSRS account if you’re caught using a VPN to hide your botting activities.
Therefore, using a VPN for botting isn’t illegal, but it’s against the game’s rules.
Can Runescape Detect a VPN?
Runescape can easily detect a VPN. When that happens, the game’s anti-cheating systems will kick in, trying to monitor your gameplay more closely. That’s because VPNs are often associated with cheating, which is against OSRS’ rules.
Therefore, if you decide to use a VPN when playing Runescape, make an effort to pick a high-quality VPN.
A high-quality VPN for Runescape brings multiple protocols, trustworthy encryption, many servers, and gaming-friendly performance. Even if you don’t plan on using bots, you’ll benefit from all those features, as they translate to pleasurable Runescape sessions.
And if you plan to use bots and scripts, taking your time is even more critical when choosing a VPN. In addition to providing you with smooth Runescape sessions, your VPN will need to bypass Jagex’s VPN detection mechanisms, helping you avoid getting banned.
Is ExpressVPN Good for Runescape?
ExpressVPN comes with many perks for Runescape players – but also has some downsides. In general, I recommend using ExpressVPN, but only if you don’t plan to use a dedicated IP address.
In terms of privacy protection, this VPN comes with automatic obfuscation on every server, which is great for hiding your botting-related activities.
It also has a sizable server fleet, with over 3,000 servers in 90+ countries. Since ExpressVPN offers so many servers, it also has many IP addresses – helpful in avoiding Runescape’s IP bans.
The biggest downside to choosing ExpressVPN is its lack of dedicated IP addresses. Since that option is not on offer, ExpressVPN isn’t a good option for everyone.
Of course, that applies only to those willing to use dedicated VPN IPs as their primary method of OSRS botting. Not everyone does that, so ExpressVPN should still be a viable pick for many.
Does a VPN Affect Ping When Playing Runescape?
Ping-related changes don’t affect Runescape as much as other games. That means you can afford your ping to go up a little without noticing delays in your actions.
The same applies to using OSRS bots, as their actions will continue without a noticeable delay.
Remember that you can do plenty to optimize your VPN’s performance. You can switch between different servers, trying to find one nearer your location. Also, don’t forget to test different protocols (OpenVPN can be slow, but WireGuard is typically very fast).
All of the VPNs in my guide are worthy choices!
Can You Use a VPN to Unban Your Runescape Account?
It’s not possible to use a VPN to bypass a Runescape account ban. OSRS bans are imposed on individual Runescape accounts (they’re tied to usernames, more precisely).
In other words, they’re not based on your IP address only.
In fact, trying to unban your Runescape account using a VPN might further complicate your situation.
Your every attempt to connect to Runescape servers will be logged. Therefore, Jagex will know that you’re trying to encrypt your connection to the game’s servers.
Instead of using a VPN, I recommend turning to this OSRS support page. Learn more about different types of bans, and then review your options.
In many cases, you can appeal a ban successfully, especially if you’re not a repeat offender.
That’s a Wrap!
This is where I’ll conclude my guide to the best VPNs for Runescape.
I sincerely hope that I’ve managed to answer all your questions, perhaps teaching you a few handy tricks along the way.
The bottom line is – right now, the best VPN for Runescape is Surfshark.
That especially goes for OSRS players who plan to use bots or automated OSRS scripts. Surfshark checks all the right boxes.
It’s easy to install and use, has gaming-friendly features, and offers fantastic speeds (with low ping and latency).
If you decide to listen to my advice, use my exclusive sign-up link to secure the lowest possible Surfshark price!
