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5 Best VPNs for Skype Calls (Bypass Block)

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ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Skype.

ExpressVPN is fast enough to handle video and audio calls without lag and has over 3000 servers to bypass Skype blocks. Additionally, its high-level encryption keeps unwanted parties from intercepting your communication channels.

I’ll also explore other alternatives, including NordVPN (double VPN), Surfshark (affordable prices), PrivateVPN (the best privacy), and Private Internet Access (double kill switches).

If you work from home but have concerns about Skype, keep reading.

The Top 3 VPNs for Unblocking Skype Calls

BEST SECURITY
NordVPN
NordVPN devices

NordVPN has the largest server network and the best security features. It offers a Double VPN and obfuscated servers for extra security. It also offers impressive connection speeds, split tunneling, and dedicated IP addresses. It can work with all Skype-compatible devices.

4.6/5
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BEST OVERALL
ExpressVPN
expressvpn multi devices

ExpressVPN offers the fastest obfuscation that works with all servers and protocols. Connection speeds are also the best. You also get military-grade encryption, an automated kill-switch, and split tunneling. It can work with most portable Skype devices.

4.8/5
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MOST AFFORDABLE
Surfshark
Surfshark Devices

Surfshark offers the most affordable price plans and unlimited simultaneous connections. The speeds are fast enough for heavy-lifting on Skype, and it has obfuscation. You can unblock Skype using over 3200 servers, and it’s compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Android.

4.6/5
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Several countries ban or interfere with Skype operations in their regions.

For most, this keeps from creating stiff competition for their local telecommunication companies since Skype is free. Thus, a VPN is necessary. Keep reading to find the top VPNs for Skype.

Do You Want Secured and Uninterrupted Skype Calls? Here Are the Best VPNs for Skype at a Glance

Are you gearing up for an important call but unsure it’ll go through?

Here’s a glance at the VPNs you can use with Skype.

  1. ExpressVPN – Fastest Speeds for Clear Skype Video & Audio Calls
  2. NordVPN – Best Security for Sensitive Skype Calls
  3. Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections for Large Skype Teams
  4. PrivateVPN – Excellent for Private Skype Calls
  5. Private Internet Access – Advanced Obfuscation for Hiding VPN + Skype Use

Skype isn’t bandwidth intensive, but stable connections make it more efficient.

Each VPN on this list was fast enough for VoIP calls with extra complimentary features that make it ideal for Skype.

The 5 Best VPNs for Skype Calls

In the mini-reviews, I’ll showcase how each VPN performed in speed tests and highlight the strengths ideal for making secure Skype calls. Are you ready to discover how to beat Skype blocks in your region? Here are the best 5 VPNs.

ExpressVPN - Fastest Speeds for Clear Skype Video & Audio Calls

Location Servers Connections Average Test Speeds Best Deal
BVI 3000+ 5 21 Mbps Show Offer

Fast Connection Speeds

expressvpn speed test results

ExpressVPN registered the fastest speeds in my tests, which isn’t surprising. The combination of fast protocols and optimized servers makes it fast enough to handle VoIP calls without interruptions.

I averaged 21 Mbps using random servers. I set up a group meeting with three friends and didn’t experience buffering from my end.

The video quality was also very clear, and sending and receiving files was fast.

Unblocking Skype

With over 3000 servers in 94 countries, unblocking Skype in countries like Brazil, Belize, and China is easy.

On top of that, ExpressVPN has automatic obfuscation.

This is necessary for unblocking Skype in the countries above.

The government knows people will switch to VPNs to access Skype.

The obfuscation offered by ExpressVPN is the best way to beat VPN detection.

It’s also the only VPN offering this, which is why it’s at the top of my list.

Plus, ExpressVPN’s obfuscation works across all servers and protocols, so the connection speeds are constant. Obfuscation in other VPNs, like NordVPN, comes with reduced speeds.

Privacy & Security

Skype isn’t beyond hackers trying to get their hands on sensitive company data. ExpressVPN has a few tricks up its sleeve for this.

First, there’s military-grade encryption which kept my Skype channel secure. Breaching this is almost impossible, even for the best hackers. Second, there’s an automated Network Lock kill switch for disabling the internet when the VPN connection drops.

expressvpn general settings

Additionally, you can Skype using public Wi-Fi if you hold a meeting while out. ExpressVPN uses encryption to stop packet sniffing programs used by hackers to read your traffic directly.

ExpressVPN also offers split tunneling, which I used to create a Skype exception rather than burdening my VPN with traffic from all my apps.

Unfortunately, ExpressVPN doesn’t offer dedicated or static IP addresses like the other alternatives. However, it has an IP rotating feature that constantly changes your IP to keep third parties out.

Device Compatibility

device compatibility

ExpressVPN is compatible with all platforms that support Skype.

This includes Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.

You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously, the lowest number of slots on this list but more than enough for a 5-member team.

ExpressVPN plans
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ExpressVPN’s price plans are the highest on my list, which might be too much for an individual working from home. However, we have fantastic deals to get the VPN at a reduced price.

Pros

Cons

NordVPN - Best Security for Sensitive Skype Calls

Location Servers Connections Average Speeds Best Deal
Panama 5500+ Six 20 Mbps Show Offer

Fast Connection Speeds

nordvpn speed test results

I averaged 20 Mbps with NordVPN, primarily due to the NordLynx protocol and a massive network of 5,000 servers. It was the second-fastest VPN.

20 Mbps is enough to handle every bandwidth-heavy activity like clear video calls and sharing heavy files.

The high number of servers means overcrowding is limited since users will likely be spread out. Choose the closest servers to boost your performance.

Unblocking Skype

nordvpn double vpn

NordVPN has the largest server network on this list.

Unblocking Skype was easier and faster. Additionally, NordVPN has specialty servers.

For example, Double VPN servers give you an extra layer of security if you’re worried your Skype calls will be compromised.

There are also obfuscated servers for people who want to beat VPN detection when using Skype in heavily restricted regions.

nordvpn obfuscation speed
NordVPN obfuscation speeds

However, NordVPN’s obfuscation was the slowest. I only averaged 4 Mbps, a considerable drop from 20 Mbps.

I experienced a slight lag with Skype as a result, and the exchange of files was slower. If speed is as important as security, ExpressVPN or Surfshark will better serve your needs.

Privacy & Security

I’ve been hacked on WhatsApp before, so I’m wary when using communication apps like Skype. Luckily, NordVPN has my back now.

First, it has impressive Next-generation encryption that encrypts your data and keeps it from anyone who can misuse it. This includes blocking any interception of your Skype calls or the files you share.

NordVPN also has Double VPN. This encrypts the data twice, so double the security for you.

nordvpn kill switch

Plus, like PIA, NordVPN has two kill switches.

The internet kill switch safeguards your device from unprotected connections if your VPN is compromised or drops.

And the App kill switch disconnects specified apps.

You won’t access the internet until the VPN connection comes back.

Additionally, NordVPN offers a dedicated IP feature at an extra cost.

Your unshared IP address is much safer when handling sensitive company communication channels like Skype. However, it costs more than dedicated IPs offered by Private Internet Access.

nordvpn split tunneling

Finally, NordVPN allows split tunneling if you want to only focus on protecting Skype. The speeds will be better, so ensure you have this activated when you use obfuscation.

Device Compatibility

You can use NordVPN on any Skype-compatible device.

It works with Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Furthermore, NordVPN can connect up to 6 devices simultaneously, one more than ExpressVPN.

This is perfect for a small team holding secured Skype calls remotely.

Regarding price, NordVPN is the second costliest VPN on this list.

The good news is you can get it at reduced prices with these discounted rates.

NordVPN pricing
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Pros

Cons

Surfshark - Unlimited Device Connections for Large Skype Teams

Location Servers Connections Average Speeds Best Deal
The Netherlands 3200+ Unlimited 28Mbps Show Offer

Fast Connection Speeds

surfshark speed test

I got 19 Mbps with Surfshark. This was slower than ExpressVPN and NordVPN by a tiny margin, so the gap wasn’t wide.

It handled VoIP services like video conferencing without issues, and transferring and receiving files were flawless.

For the test, I used WireGuard and IKEv2, the two fastest protocols.

But that’s not the only reason for the speeds. Surfshark also regularly updates its servers.

Choose either protocol and use the nearest server for faster results.

Unblocking Skype

surfshark connected to us, new york server

With 3200+ servers, I bypassed geo-restrictions without a hassle.

However, the server network is smaller than NordVPN.

Although it lacks a dedicated IP feature, Surfshark has free Static IP servers. Static IPs are shared, but you get the same IP every time you connect, unlike PIA’s Multi-Hop gives you a new one with each connection.

Surfshark also offers obfuscation called Camouflage Mode.

It works automatically with OpenVPN. It’s more efficient than NordVPN but still slower than ExpressVPN. With Camouflage Mode, you can unblock Skype in Myanmar and China without detection.

surfshark camouflage mode speed
Surfshark’s obfuscation speeds

Privacy & Security

Surfshark offers AES 256-bit encryption. All your Skype traffic, including video calls, passes through an encrypted tunnel that keeps dangers at bay. Your ISP also can’t throttle your speeds since they can’t see what you’re doing in the first place.

surfshark kill switch feature

Meanwhile, an automatic kill switch disables the internet when your VPN connection drops while using Skype. Everything will go offline, including Skype, but that’s better than compromising your secure channel.

This is where NordVPN, PrivateVPN, and PIA have the edge over Surfshark for their double kill switches.

This budget-friendly VPN also has a Bypasser feature (split tunneling).

You can choose what to encrypt with the VPN and what to leave out.

This was convenient for me since I have PayPal on my Android phone, and it doesn’t entertain the use of VPNs.

Device Compatibility

Surfshark works on Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.

All these are devices that support Skype.

Screenshot MS 1 1
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Surfshark is also the only VPN with unlimited device connections.

For companies with large remote teams, one account is enough to secure all devices for Skype calls.

Finally, Surfshark is very affordable, with incredible discounts to boot.

Pros

Cons

PrivateVPN - Excellent for Private Skype Calls

Location Servers Connections Average Speeds Best Deal
Sweden 200 Ten 14 Mbps Show Offer

Fast Connection Speeds

privatevpn speed test results

4th on the list is PrivateVPN. I averaged 14 Mbps in the speed test, making it the 4th fastest VPN. That was enough for smooth video and audio calls and sharing files. It has fast servers that offer low latency.

PrivateVPN also purchases high-capacity internet (HQN) from the best IP transit providers and hosting companies, significantly improving speeds.

Like other alternatives, PrivateVPN has the IKEv2 protocol that offers the best speeds. I combined that with the closest server I could find, and the speeds improved.

Unblocking Skype

privatevpn connected to france, paris server

PrivateVPN has the smallest server network, and that was a challenge.

With only 200 servers in 63 countries, you have fewer options for unblocking Skype, meaning overcrowded servers, which explains the speeds.

In better news, PrivateVPN has an obfuscation feature called StealthVPN. However, unlike ExpressVPN, it only works with OpenVPN, and the connection speeds reduce once activated.

privatevpn obfuscation speed
PrivateVPN obfuscation speeds

I conducted a second speed test with StealthVPN, and the average speeds were cut to 9 Mbps. That’s still faster than Camouflage Mode and NordVPN’s obfuscated servers.

Privacy & Security

I always feel someone is listening in on my private calls.

But PrivateVPN’s state-of-the-art encryption settled my fears.

The AES 256-bit encryption ensured my Skype calls through the VPN were secure and unhackable. This blanket encryption also eliminates ISP monitoring that can lead to speed throttling.

PrivateVPN also secures devices on public Wi-Fi networks.

So you can hold your Skype calls without worries anywhere.

Be it at the airport cafe before the flight or in the mall when doing your shopping.

privatevpn security

There’s also an effective kill switch called Connection Guard that works alongside a second kill switch called Application Guard.

This disconnects the internet for an assigned app (similar to NordVPN’s App Kill Switch).

PrivateVPN also offers dynamic dedicated IPs. They’re unshared, but you won’t get the same IP twice like Surfshark’s Static IP.

Every time you connect to PrivateVPN, you get a new dedicated IP address. This makes your Skype connections more secure, especially when censorship is heavy.

Unfortunately, for those who hate routing everything through the VPN, PrivateVPN doesn’t offer split tunneling.

Device Compatibility

PrivateVPN works with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux (manual configuration).

Additionally, you can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, more than ExpressVPN and NordVPN. This is enough for a small team needing to secure multiple devices for Skype calls.

privatevpn pricing
Image for illustration only. Design, deals, and details may differ. Click on the image for current info.

On price plans, PrivateVPN is among the cheapest.

Add these fantastic discounts, and you can have it for nearly nothing.

Pros

Cons

Private Internet Access - Advanced Obfuscation for Hiding VPN + Skype Use

Location Servers Connections Average Speeds Best Deal
United States Unknown Ten 22Mbps Show Offer

Fast Connection Speeds

pia internet speed

I got 8 Mbps with Private Internet Access, the slowest connection so far.

I didn’t experience lags or freezes on the call, but sending large files took much longer.

And unlike other options, PIA only has two protocols: WireGuard (the fastest) and OpenVPN. I used WireGuard for the speed test.

Unblocking Skype

get pia vpn

Private Internet Access has enough servers worldwide to unblock Skype quickly. These servers offer unlimited bandwidth, so your ISP can’t throttle your speeds when making important Skype calls.

Since PIA is based in the US, you’ll have more access to US-based servers where Skype isn’t restricted. That should get you through the door.

But what placed PIA on this list is its impressive obfuscation.

Unlike the other VPNs, it comes bundled with Multi-Hop.

So, on top of removing VPN traces from your traffic, your Skype traffic is routed through a VPN server and a proxy. This makes it faster than the typical obfuscation. However, it only works with OpenVPN, and your speeds will still reduce.

pia obfuscation speed test results

On my second speed test with obfuscation active, I got 7 Mbps, a mere 1 Mbps drop. This is faster than Surfshark and NordVPN.

Privacy & Security

PIA is a well-rounded VPN when it comes to privacy and security.

It’s the only VPN that offers 128-bit and 256-bit encryption.

You can select either from the settings.

pia privacy options

The VPN also comes with two kill switches. A regular one disconnects the internet when the VPN connection comes down, and an Advanced kill switch blocks leaks even with the VPN deactivated.

You can also use PIA’s split-tunneling to only direct Skype traffic through the VPN for better performance. Furthermore, PIA has a dedicated IP feature that will cost you extra, although it’s cheaper and more flexible than NordVPN’s dedicated IP.

Device Compatibility

You can use PIA on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Like PrivateVPN, PIA also allows up to 10 simultaneous device connections.

Private Internet Access Plans & Price
Image for illustration only. Design, deals, and details may differ. Click on the image for current info.

The VPN’s price tag is also fair. But you can get it discounted through this link.

Pros

Cons

Choosing a VPN for Skype Calls: Things to Keep In Mind

Still struggling to make a decision? Here are tips to make things easier.

  • Fast Connection Speeds: Skype relies on VoIP technology, requiring fast internet speeds that can handle clear video and voice calls without interruptions. So the ideal VPN should offer Skype users the best speeds.
  • Unblocking Capabilities: Skype is blocked in some South American countries by telecommunication companies that don’t entertain the huge competition provided by Skype. It’s also blocked in China and most Asian countries. So find a VPN with an extensive server network that can bypass these blocks worldwide.
  • Privacy & Security: Skype video calls are sometimes used for sensitive communications, even within company setups. Sensitive information is always at stake in these situations, so you need proper tools that prevent outside parties from intercepting communication channels. The ideal secure VPN should have military-grade encryption, kill switches, and obfuscation for places where Skype is heavily censored.
  • Device Compatibility: Skype VoIP service can be used on smartphones, tablets, and PCs. So go for a VPN compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, or macOS. Furthermore, consider a VPN with more slots for simultaneous device connections. This makes it easier for large teams to encrypt their Skype calls through the same account.

How to Unblock Skype With a VPN?

You can unblock Skype with a VPN using the following steps.

  1. Download, install, and log in to your ExpressVPN account.
download expressvpn
  1. Choose a server and connect.
  1. Launch Skype and start making secure VoIP calls.
skype home

Will a VPN for Skype Protect Me From Government Surveillance?

A VPN can protect you from government surveillance by encrypting your Skype traffic and routing it through a server in another country.

Of course, no system is perfect, and there are always ways for determined adversaries to snoop on your communications. There are reports of agencies like the NSA snooping on Skype calls that many presume to be well-encrypted, even with a VPN.

On its own, there’s very little that Skype can do to stop the government from accessing private user data on request. A simple switch between the keys generated by the Skype servers and your device session key can make interception and encryption possible.

As long as you’re using Skype, your data has to pass through Microsoft’s servers, and even the best VPNs may not help much.

That said, using a reliable VPN service will at least make things significantly more difficult for anyone trying to access your data. It’s a classic “half a loaf is better than none.”

China Users: Don't Use TOM Skype

For users in China, ensure you have the VPN active before downloading the International version of Skype from the Microsoft website. There’s another version called TOM-Skype that’s compliant with Chinese surveillance laws.

It looks exactly like regular Skype, so telling them apart is hard if you’re unaware of its existence.

Using a VPN won’t help if you run the TOM-Skype version on your device.

Countries Where Skype Is Blocked

Skype is blocked in:

  • The UAE
  • Guyana
  • Venezuela
  • North Korea
  • Kuwait
  • Libya
  • Oman
  • Qatar
  • Belize
  • Brazil
  • China
  • Iran
  • Myanmar
  • Panama
  • Vietnam
  • Syria
  • Pakistan

Skype Not Working With a VPN? Troubleshooting Guide

If you’re having trouble connecting to Skype with a VPN, try the following:

  1. De-activate the Kill Switch, then reactivate it again. Sometimes, the VPN takes a moment before establishing a stable connection, which makes the kill switch kick into action.
  2. Switch to another server. You may be using an overcrowded server.
  3. Change to a faster protocol like IKEv2 or WireGuard.
  4. Check to see if your VPN app is updated.
Interesting Reads:

FAQ

You can use Skype in China. However, you must use a VPN to bypass China’s Great Firewall. Without a VPN, the Chinese government will block your Skype calls.

Also, ensure the VPN has enough servers for unblocking Skype.

It should offer obfuscation to help you beat any VPN detection methods employed by the Chinese government. Additionally, ensure you download Skype with the VPN active to avoid ending up with TOM-Skype, which is open to surveillance.

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Skype in the UAE. It offers fast speeds for clear Skype calls, robust security to counter interception by third parties, and over 3,000 servers in 94 countries for unblocking Skype in the UAE.

You can also connect up to 5 devices simultaneously with ExpressVPN, making it an excellent choice for families or businesses that use Skype for official communication.

ExpressVPN is a top choice for using Skype in Oman.

The service offers excellent speeds and reliable connections, making it easy to keep in touch with friends and family worldwide.

ExpressVPN also provides robust security features, including military-grade encryption and an automatic obfuscation feature that makes it impossible for internet service providers or the government to track your online activity.

ExpressVPN is one of the best-performing VPNs on the market, offering high speeds and strong encryption. It also has a fast built-in obfuscation technology, making it difficult for ISPs and third parties to track your online activity.

Plus, ExpressVPN is compatible with all Android smartphones and tablets running Android 12, 11, 10, Pie, Oreo, Nougat, Marshmallow & Lollipop.

Skype isn’t against the use of VPNs. In fact, Skype offers a highly secure service called Skype for Business Online that mimics a lot of VPN security and privacy features.

However, Skype uses a peer-to-peer network to connect users, and VPNs can interfere with this. For example, the VPN kill switch engaging when it detects unsecured network activity. Using a congested server could also interfere with Skype.

A free VPN like AtlasVPN can work with Skype. However, there are certain limitations to consider before using a free VPN with Skype.

Free VPNs have lower data caps and are slower than paid VPNs.

So, a paid VPN is better if you use Skype for video calls or other bandwidth-intensive activities.

Most free VPNs also sell your data to third parties to make money.

So, if privacy is a concern, use a paid VPN like ExpressVPN that doesn’t keep logs of your activity.

Skype can be hacked. There were several high-profile cases in which hackers accessed Skype accounts and stolen sensitive information or engaged in other malicious activity. To protect yourself from being hacked, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and use a premium VPN.

Additionally, avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources. If you believe your Skype account was compromised, immediately change your password and contact Skype customer support.

A VPN can slow down Skype calls, but that depends on your VPN, your base internet speeds, and the server load of the VPN service.

With a VPN, your internet connection must go through a VPN server before reaching the Skype servers.

This extra step can add a slight delay and may result in lower call quality due to compression. However, you’ll barely notice this when using a fast premium VPN.

Conclusion

You can have secure Skype calls, and ExpressVPN is my number one recommendation. Its fast obfuscation gives it an edge over the other options, and it has one of the cleanest user interfaces. Furthermore, it works with most Skype-compatible devices.

For those looking for good alternatives, you can turn to NordVPN, Surfshark, PrivateVPN, and Private Internet Access.

Don’t forget to subscribe to ExpressVPN through this link to get amazing discounts and change how you connect with people through Skype.

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