Are you one of the approximately 5% of desktop users still using Internet Explorer in 2023? If so, you need strong protection while browsing on this outdated and insecure browser.
In this guide, I‘ll explain why Internet Explorer is risky to use nowadays without a VPN. I‘ll also recommend the top 6 best VPNs for Internet Explorer in 2023 based on speed, security, and ease of use.
My goal is to equip you with the knowledge to pick the ideal VPN solution to make your Internet Explorer usage far more safe and private this year. Let‘s dive in!
Contents
Why Internet Explorer is Insecure in 2023
First, let‘s look at why VPNs are so critical for today‘s Internet Explorer users.
Internet Explorer (IE) usage has plummeted from over 60% of desktop browser market share in 2010 down to just 4.87% globally as of January 2023 according to Statcounter.
As IE has declined, Microsoft has scaled back support and security updates. The last IE version, IE 11, was released in 2013. It no longer receives new features or defense against emerging online threats.
This makes browsing on IE a major security liability. According to cybersecurity firm Cynet, Internet Explorer has over 300 known vulnerabilities while modern browsers like Chrome and Edge have fewer than 100.
Hackers target security flaws in outdated software like IE to deploy malware and phishing campaigns. They count on people clinging to familiar old browsers despite the risks.
Using IE in 2023 without a VPN exposes you to significant cyber dangers. A reputable VPN adds layers of protection to keep your browsing secure despite IE‘s vulnerabilities.
How VPNs Keep Internet Explorer Safe
Virtual Private Networks encrypt all your online traffic and route it through a private tunnel. This prevents outsiders like hackers from accessing your data.
Here are some key ways a good VPN protects Internet Explorer users:
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Encryption – VPNs use strong protocols like AES-256 bit encryption to scramble your data so no one can read it.
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New IP Address – Your traffic exits through the VPN server‘s IP address rather than your own, masking your identity and location.
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No Activity Logs – Quality VPNs have a strict no-logs policy meaning your browsing history is never recorded.
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Kill Switch – If your VPN connection drops, the "kill switch" will automatically disable Internet access to avoid any data leaks.
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DNS/IPv6 Leak Protection – Prevents any DNS or IP leaks that could expose your real IP address.
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Malware Blocking – VPN servers block connections to malicious sites and scan for malware threats.
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Secure Protocols – VPN apps provide added security with protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, Wireguard, and more.
This fortified encryption and anonymity is just what outdated software like IE needs to stay safe in 2023 and beyond.
Now let‘s look at the top 6 VPNs I recommend for securing Internet Explorer this year.
6 Best VPN Services for Internet Explorer in 2023
1. NordVPN – Best VPN for Internet Explorer Overall
NordVPN is my top pick for IE users. It offers an ideal blend of air-tight security, fast speeds, and easy setup.
Some of the key benefits:
- Compatible extensions for simple IE setup
- 5500+ servers in 60 countries for global access
- Next-gen IKEv2/IPsec & Wireguard protocol options
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Double VPN and Onion over VPN for extra privacy
- 6 simultaneous device connections
- Strict no-logs policy
- Automatic kill switch
- Malware/ad blocking
NordVPN has reliable performance for streaming and downloads at speeds up to 6730 Mbps. The company is based in Panama, outside the surveillance networks of the US, UK, Australia, and Canada.
It‘s easy to install NordVPN‘s add-on directly within IE. The extension has robust privacy features tailored for secure browsing.
NordVPN offers affordable pricing starting at just $3.29 per month. It comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so you can test it out risk-free.
This is a highly trustworthy VPN pick for keeping your identity protected while using dated software like IE.
2. ExpressVPN – Blazing Fast Speeds
ExpressVPN is an excellent high-speed VPN choice for IE. It provides:
- Simple Internet Explorer extensions
- 3000+ servers in 94 countries
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Unlimited bandwidth and connections
- Split tunneling
- Top speeds up to 8700 Mbps
- 24/7 live chat support
ExpressVPN has ultra fast servers perfect for HD video streaming and large downloads without buffering. The company has a strict no-logs policy and is based in the British Virgin Islands outside of surveillance alliances.
The browser extension makes it seamless to route your IE traffic through the VPN. ExpressVPN works on most devices and offers reliable security.
Pricing starts at $8.32 monthly or you can save 49% with an annual plan at just $6.67 per month. Every plan comes with a 30-day refund guarantee.
With its excellent speeds and privacy protections, ExpressVPN is a leading contender for IE users.
3. CyberGhost – Budget-Friendly Option
CyberGhost is an affordable VPN solution with good speeds and security. Some highlights:
- User-friendly IE browser add-on
- 7000+ servers in 91 countries
- 256-bit AES encryption
- No-logs policy
- Malware & ad blocking
- Unlimited bandwidth & connections
- App kill switch to prevent leaks
- Budget pricing as low as $2.15/month
CyberGhost has specialized servers for streaming, torrenting, and other uses. The company is transparent about protecting user data and never logs activity or traffic.
The browser extension makes CyberGhost simple to set up within Internet Explorer with just a few clicks. It brings advanced encryption and anonymity to your IE browsing.
At just $2.15 per month on 3-year plans, CyberGhost costs less than competitors without sacrificing key security and privacy.
4. Surfshark – Unlimited Device Connections
Surfshark stands out for providing unlimited device connections at a low cost. Key features:
- IE extensions for easy setup
- 3200+ servers in 100+ countries
- 256-bit AES encryption
- MultiHop feature for double VPN protection
- CleanWeb to block ads & malware
- No activity or connection logs
- 24/7 live chat support
Surfshark has high-speed servers optimized for streaming, social media, and gaming. The company is headquartered outside the 5/9/14 Eyes surveillance alliances.
Adding Surfshark‘s IE add-on only takes a couple minutes. It routes all your browser traffic through an encrypted tunnel to hide your digital footprint.
Pricing is very affordable at only $2.49 per month on 2-year plans. You can connect as many devices as you want.
With robust security and unlimited connections, Surfshark is a smart choice for IE users.
5. Private Internet Access – Large Server Network
Private Internet Access (PIA) has a massive network of high-speed VPN servers. Key advantages:
- User-friendly IE browser plugin
- 10,000+ fast servers in 78 countries
- Next-gen encryption like WireGuard
- Zero-logs policy for max anonymity
- Ad & tracker blocking
- Automatic kill switch
- Up to 10 simultaneous connections
PIA does not record any user activity or traffic. It has high-security measures like leak protection, encrypted WiFi, and port forwarding.
You can easily add PIA‘s plugin to encrypt Internet Explorer for safe, private browsing. PIA includes advanced privacy tools for just $2.69 per month.
With its huge global server coverage, PIA is a great choice to maximize your worldwide access and anonymity.
6. IPVanish – Optimized for Streaming
IPVanish delivers blazing fast speeds perfect for streaming media. Key features include:
- Simple IE browser add-on
- 1500+ servers in 75+ locations
- 256-bit AES encryption
- Unlimited bandwidth & P2P support
- Zero traffic or activity logs
- Automatic IP address cycling
- Fast speeds up to 20,000 Mbps
IPVanish has one of the fastest VPN networks available today. Its connections are optimized for HD video streaming, gaming, and large downloads.
The IE extension makes it quick and easy to route your browser traffic through IPVanish‘s servers for complete anonymity.
Pricing starts at $3.99 per month for unlimited high-speed connections. IPVanish is a good match if you stream a lot or download large files.
VPN for Internet Explorer Comparison
| VPN Service | Servers | Countries | Encryption | Logging Policy | Money-back Guarantee | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | 5500+ | 60+ | 256-bit AES | No logs | 30 days | $3.29/month |
| ExpressVPN | 3000+ | 94 | 256-bit AES | No logs | 30 days | $8.32/month |
| CyberGhost | 7000+ | 91 | 256-bit AES | No logs | 45 days | $2.15/month |
| Surfshark | 3200+ | 100+ | 256-bit AES | No logs | 30 days | $2.49/month |
| PIA | 10,000+ | 78 | Next-gen AES | No logs | 30 days | $2.69/month |
| IPVanish | 1500+ | 75+ | 256-bit AES | No logs | 30 days | $3.99/month |
This comparison summarizes the key stats for each VPN service at a glance. As you can see, all these leading options provide robust 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no logging policy, and a 30 day money back guarantee at minimum.
Each VPN excels in certain areas like ExpressVPN for speed or Surfshark for unlimited connections. Review the details to find your best match.
Final Thoughts – Browse Safely on IE with a VPN
I hope this guide has helped demonstrate why Internet Explorer users need a good VPN in 2023, as well as which top services provide the right blend of security, speed, and value.
Internet Explorer‘s shrinking market share and lack of updates leaves you vulnerable to privacy invasions, identity theft, malware attacks, and more.
An advanced VPN is absolutely essential to encrypt your connection and anonymize your traffic when relying on outdated software like IE. This allows you to continue using the familiar browser you love while safely avoiding the many risks.
The top recommendation is NordVPN for its robust encryption, fast speeds, easy-to-use browser extensions, and reliable security across all your devices.
Whichever VPN you choose, make sure to install the Internet Explorer add-on and keep it running each time you use IE. This provides a vital layer of protection that keeps your browsing away from prying eyes.
With a top-tier VPN in place, you can confidently use Internet Explorer in 2023 knowing your privacy and security needs are covered. Browse safely!
