In order to obtain an IP address for Russia, you’ll need a VPN. Short for “Virtual Private Network”, a VPN encrypts your device’s incoming and outgoing traffic and routes it through one of the VPN’s servers in a different location. In this case, a server located in Russia. This hides your true IP address and location and means you can access geo-restricted websites, content, and Russian TV from anywhere in the world.
We’re going to discuss all of the best VPNs in detail below and answer some common VPN and IP address questions. But if you don’t have time to read the full article, here’s a quick summary:
The best VPNs to get a Russian IP address:
- CyberGhost: Our #1 choice for Russia. Has over 60 servers in Russia. Servers are optimized for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Doesn’t collect logs and includes 24/7 support.
- Hotspot Shield: Unlimited bandwidth as well as servers in 80 countries, Russia included. No identifying logs and has 24/7 support.
- Proton VPN: Two dozen Russian servers and very fast speeds. Lots of security features, including an ad, tracker, and malware blocker.
- PureVPN: Large server network (6,000+ servers) and absolutely no bandwidth throttling. New-and-improved privacy policy and no identifying logs.
- VyprVPN: Access streaming services such as Netflix. A no-logs VPN with excellent security. A good choice for Russia.
- ProtonVPN: An extremely fast VPN with servers in Russia. Boasts a high level of security and can access most geo-blocked platforms.
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How to get an IP address for Russia
The simplest way to obtain an IP address for any country, including Russia, is to use a VPN. But don’t worry if you’ve never used one before the process is quite straightforward.
Here’s how to get a Russian IP address with a VPN:
- Choose a VPN service with servers in Russia. We particularly recommend CyberGhost.
- Purchase and download the VPN software for your device. Be sure to select the correct version for your operating system.
- Open the VPN app (or browser extension if available). Connect to a server in Russia, this will give you a Russian IP address.
- Try out the geo-restricted Russian website or service, which should now be unblocked.
- Enjoy unrestricted access to geo-restricted content!
- If you encounter any problems, try another server or try clearing your browser’s cookies. If you’re still struggling, contact your VPN’s customer support.
The best VPNs to get a Russian IP address
The VPNs on our list will help you gain a Russian IP address while giving you the best level of protection and service. For a VPN service to be considered, it had to meet the following requirements:
- Russian servers that work
- A global network of fast and reliable servers
- Able to unblock geo-restricted content
- Strong security with a strict no-logs policy
- Customer support with a live chat feature
- Easy-to-use apps for all major operating systems
This is just a short overview, but you can read a more detailed account of our VPN testing methodology below. First, let’s take a look at the providers that impressed us.
Here are the best VPNs for gaining a Russian IP address:
1. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is our top choice VPN for a Russian IP address. It has over 60 Russian servers as well as approximately 10,000 servers in 100+ other countries. It’s a beginner-friendly VPN with easy-to-use apps and customer support 24/7 over live chat if you run into any problems. It also offers a 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
CyberGhost provides great security with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and an always-on kill switch, which ensures you won’t be unprotected even for a second. There’s also automatic ad and malware-blocking built-in, and CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable information.
CyberGhost offers apps for Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS, and Linux. It can be manually installed on select network routers.
Pros:
- Operates an ever-growing network of servers with over 60 in Russia
- Always-on kill switch on all platforms
- Connect 7 devices at once
- Beginner friendly
- 24/7 live chat support
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- More suited to beginners than power users
Our score:
OUR TOP CHOICE VPN:CyberGhost has over 60 servers in Russia plus an ever-growing network of 10,000+ global ones. It has great security, is easy to use, offers 24/7 live chat support, and a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full CyberGhost review.
2. Hotspot Shield
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Hotspotshield.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.
Hotspot Shield stands out for offering servers in more than 80 countries, Russia included. This makes it highly suitable for traveling. With a Russian IP address, you’ll be able to stream Russian TV, such as Russia-1 and Channel One, from abroad. While not the fastest VPN on the market, Hotspot Shield’s speeds are still more than fast enough for streaming content in 1080p HD. It also works with Netflix US and UK.
You can expect all of your internet traffic to be secured with 256-bit AES encryption when you connect to a Hotspot Shield server. There’s also a kill switch feature in all versions of the app, as well as protection from DNS leaks. Just as important as this, Hotspot Shield doesn’t keep any personally identifiable logs of its users. While easy to use, this VPN provider offers 24-hour support via live chat and email.
Hotspot Shield provides apps for the following: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. There’s also a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. However, manual setup is needed in order to use it with a compatible wifi router.
Pros:
- Servers in 80 countries, including Russia, for a Russian IP address
- Unlimited bandwidth for lag-free streaming of Russian TV
- Doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified as a user
- Live chat and email support around the clock
- Strong security and privacy protocols
Cons:
- Doesn’t accept Bitcoin
- Expensive single-month plan
Our score:
SERVERS IN 80 COUNTRIES:Hotspot Shield has a generous server network and doesn’t throttle user bandwidth. Use it to stream Russian TV and even Netflix US. Highly secure and has 24/7 support. Includes a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Hotspot Shield review.
3. Proton VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.protonvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Proton VPN has two dozen servers in Moscow, Russia — far more than most VPNs. This makes it very easy to access your usual websites and services when you travel outside Russia. You’ll have no trouble streaming content, be it Russian TV or popular streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Proton VPN’s speeds are more than fast enough for this purpose, and it offers unlimited bandwidth too.
Security and privacy protection are arguably Proton VPN’s greatest strengths. There’s no shortage of security features, such as 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. However, Proton VPN stands out from many other VPNs with NetShield (for blocking ads, trackers, and malware) and Secure Core (Double VPN servers). Proton VPN is headquartered in Switzerland and has a no-logs policy.
Proton VPN apps can be downloaded and installed for the following: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV. Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are also available, and it can even be manually configured with certain wifi routers.
Pros:
- Offers two dozen servers in Moscow, Russia
- Very good speeds allow for lag-free streaming
- Packed with security features, including a malware blocker
- Comprehensive no-logs policy so you can browse anonymously
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide live chat support
- One of the more expensive VPNs
Our score:
24 RUSSIAN SERVERS:Proton VPN offers plenty of servers for getting a Russian IP address. High-speed connections with no bandwidth throttling. Impressive array of security features and has a true no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Proton VPN review.
4. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN has one of the largest server networks of any VPN, with more than 6,000 servers available in 65+ countries. This includes servers in Russia, allowing you to get a Russian IP address with ease. In our most recent tests, PureVPN’s average speed measured at 98 Mbps. This is fast enough for more bandwidth-intensive activities such as streaming, torrenting, and online gaming.
The unblocking ability of PureVPN is also impressive. Indeed, it worked with Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu in testing (Russian TV channels pose absolutely no problem either). Security-wise, you can expect 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a built-in kill switch. PureVPN has made massive strides when it comes to privacy, rolling out a new privacy policy. It doesn’t keep identifying logs, and these claims have been independently audited.
You’ll be able to access PureVPN’s Russian servers via its apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. There are plenty of browser extensions, too (available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave). Use with routers requires manual setup.
Pros:
- Very large server network, which includes servers in Russia
- Good speeds allow for streaming and torrenting
- Worked well with popular streaming services in testing
- Much improved privacy policy and doesn’t keep identifying logs
Cons:
- Some features only available with more expensive subscription tiers
- Has suffered some privacy issues in the past
Our score:
GENEROUS SERVER NETWORK:PureVPN has more than 6,000 servers including in Russia. Good speeds and unlimited bandwidth and even works with the likes of Netflix. No identifying logs and has 24/7 live chat support. 31-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full PureVPN review.
5. VyprVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.VyprVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
VyprVPN is a service that prides itself on providing users with plenty of choices. Aside from offering over 700 servers around the world and unlimited server switching, VyprVPN provides more than 300,000 IP addresses. Having tested VyprVPN extensively, we can say that servers are fast, and we like that we’re not restricted by download caps. We were able to stream Netflix and Amazon Prime Video without any issues, and the overall performance was solid.
When it comes to security, VyprVPN owns and manages its servers. This is in contrast to many VPNs, which merely rent their servers from third parties. Headquartered in Switzerland, VyprVPN has been independently audited to prove it’s a no-logs VPN. This is great if you’re concerned about your privacy online, particularly in Russia, where censorship and surveillance are an issue. VyprVPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, provides DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Overall, it’s one of the more secure VPNs you can use.
VyprVPN apps are available for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Manual setup is needed for routers.
Pros:
- Fast servers with unlimited bandwidth
- Works with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more
- No logs VPN – independently audited to prove it
- More than 300,000 IP addresses
Cons:
- Relatively small server network
- Apps are a little dull
Our score:
SECURE AND RELIABLE:VyprVPN owns its own servers, places a lot of importance on your security, and has a proven no-logs policy. Has apps for for Linux, Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full VyprVPN review.
6. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.protonvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN has a huge network, with more than 3,800 servers in 90+ countries including around two dozen in Russia. These are more than fast enough for uninterrupted browsing and you’ll even be able to access platforms like Match TV, ivi, and Carousel while connected. This service offers an obfuscation tool on most platforms and provides detailed instructions on how to sign up while in Russia, though as its website is blocked, you’ll have to install it before arrival.
This VPN has a strong commitment to privacy and it shows. It only supports industry-approved protocols and encryption methods, plus there are safeguards such as a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and automatic tracker-blocking. ProtonVPN doesn’t keep logs of your activities, a fact confirmed by independent auditors. Concerned about being tracked? Don’t be: there are Secure Core servers that are kept in high-security locations outside of Russia so they’re safe from governmental surveillance. Further, as ProtoNVPN accepts Bitcoin and cash payments, it’s as easy as possible to sign up anonymously.
ProtonVPN has its own Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS apps. Further, it can be manually installed on most routers, allowing you to bypass the 10-connection limit.
Pros:
- Quick, reliable, and secure
- Great for accessing stubborn sites while traveling abroad
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- May be too advanced for some users
- Not the cheapest option
Our score:
POWERFUL SECURITY:ProtonVPN goes above and beyond to keep your activities private. With exceptionally high speeds and unparalleled unblocking ability, it’s perfect for anyone looking to stream Russian TV abroad. Paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more info, read our complete ProtonVPN review.
Methodology: How we choose the best VPNs for Russia
Selecting a VPN for Russia isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. In order to make it onto our list, VPNs must fit the following criteria:
- Server availability: In order to get a Russian IP address, you need a VPN provider with servers in Russia. All of the VPNs on our list have servers in Russia, as well as a good number of global servers in a significant number of locations.
- Speed: All VPNs we test go through rigorous speed tests to ensure they are fast enough for streaming, gaming, and other popular online activities to avoid endless buffering and laggy connections.
- Security: Watertight encryption is vital in places like Russia, with heavy internet censorship. The VPNs we select must have a minimum of 256-bit AES encryption to ensure your connection remains private. We also look for VPNs with a no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch.
- App support: Having apps on the devices you use most will make a more enjoyable VPN experience. Most providers we select have desktop and mobile apps, while some also support routers.
- Unblocking ability: Accessing your favorite websites like Netflix or news sites from abroad is important to us, so we test VPN providers on popular websites to check their ability to evade geo-restrictions.
- Customer support: Getting support when needed is essential when things don’t work as expected. We look for VPNs that offer 24/7 support with live chat, ticketing, or email as standard.
- Value: We find VPNs that offer a free trial or money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service without making a commitment to ensure you’re getting exactly what you need.
To find out more about our testing procedure, read our complete VPN testing methodology.
Getting a Russian IP address: FAQs
Are VPNs legal in Russia?
You might have heard about Russia introducing a VPN ban, but the reality is that these services are still legal — you just have to use one of the government-approved providers. We’ll let you decide for yourself how secure these services really are, but will simply mention that Russian laws allow the government to demand access to a VPN provider’s servers, which is why many Western providers have pulled out of Russia entirely.
*Disclaimer: While we have researched this topic thoroughly, nothing in our article should be taken as legal advice. Our goal is to provide you with the best information and solutions. Comparitech does not encourage or condone using a VPN illegally. We advise researching your country’s laws and the terms of use for specific streaming platforms before using a VPN to access their content.
Do I need a VPN while in Russia?
Freedom House rated Russia’s internet as “Not Free” in Freedom on the Net 2022, scoring the country 23/100 (with 0 being the most free and 100 being the least). This is down from 67/100 in 2018, meaning Russia now has one of the most-restrictive versions of the internet anywhere in the world.
Russian authorities have censored a wide range of online content. Notably, authorities blocked Telegram after the platform’s refusal to hand encryption keys to Russia’s Federal Security Service. LinkedIn was blocked in Russia after a Russian court ruled it was in violation of the law regarding foreign-held data.
With authorities in Russia continuing to block websites (including those of VPNs) and even passing legislation that bans VPNs, it’s clear that internet freedom is severely limited in Russia. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and as a result of sanctions imposed on Russia as punishment, there’s been a more significant crackdown on internet freedoms than was previously in place. Russia wishes to prevent its internet users from sharing information with outside entities surrounding the facts of its invasion and leaking intelligence that may benefit Russian enemies.
By obtaining a VPN for Russia, you can not only access geo-restricted websites, but you can also unblock government-censored content. The best VPNs for Russia also protect your privacy, hiding your IP address and activity from your internet service provider (ISP) as well as snoopers.
How can I watch Russian TV abroad?
By using a VPN and connecting to a Russian server, you can watch Russian TV in any country as long as you have an internet connection. This is the case even if the content is geo-restricted and only otherwise accessible in Russia. If, after connecting to a server, you still encounter issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies.
A Russian IP address allows you to access all sorts of state-owned Russian TV channels, including Russia 1, NTV and Match TV. You’ll also be able to unblock popular Russian streaming services such as ivi and Okko. The best VPNs with servers in countries such as the USA and UK also let you access streaming services such as Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video.
Can I use a free VPN to get a Russian IP address?
While you can use a free VPN to get a Russian IP address, you may find it something of a challenge. That’s because free VPNs are usually of poor quality. Often with very few servers and too many users, they’re subject to all sorts of restrictions such as limited bandwidth. You’ll, therefore, find that free VPNs can be very slow and this makes streaming movies and TV shows quite irritating as there’s plenty of buffering and lag.
However, just as important as performance is security. Internet censorship and mass surveillance are present in Russia and this means a VPN is vital if you want to protect your privacy and anonymity in the country. Unfortunately, free VPNs aren’t very safe. Some free VPNs are infected with malware, while others sell your data to third parties. This means it’s vital that you choose a VPN for Russia that has a strict no-logs policy.
Which websites don’t work in Russia?
While a Russian IP address can help you access websites and services outside Russia, it won’t be much help if you’re in Russia. That’s because many sites are blacklisted due to the high level of internet censorship in the country. You’d therefore, need an IP address of another country (such as the US, UK or Australia, for example) in order to access them.
Should you come across a restricted site in Russia, chances are you’ll come across a page with a message that translates as: “Dear users, We apologize, but access to the requested resource is limited.” This is then followed by a list of possible reasons for the restriction.
Some of the most high-profile websites and services that are blocked in Russia include the messaging service Telegram, banned by court order in April 2018, and Dailymotion, a video-sharing service blocked in January 2017. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has also banned several popular websites, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Google News, BBC News, NPR, Die Welt, and AOL. You can use our free security tool if you’d like to check if any website is blocked in Russia.
Unfortunately, most VPN websites are also blocked in Russia, making it difficult for citizens in Russia to download VPNs for personal use.
Is it safe to use Russian VPN servers?
When Russia’s VPN crackdown was first announced, larger providers like NordVPN quickly shut down all of their operations in the country, claiming that they’d be unable to guarantee customers’ privacy if the government were to seize their servers.
A few VPNs remain, however. For instance, PrivateVPN is confident that its zero-logs policy and self-owned server architecture is enough to shield user data from even the most determined government sleuth.
CyberGhost, meanwhile, has taken a different approach. It uses a virtual server somewher else in the world to provide Russian IP addresses. These aren’t actually in Russia, so they’re not subject to Russian laws. The downside is, it’s usually hard to tell which country’s laws do apply to virtual servers, and Russian users might find them a little slower due to how far away they are.
