Best VPNs for Uzbekistan in 2023 (Stay Safe & Anonymous)
Last Updated by Rosemary S Siluvai Anthony on October 25, 2024
The level of web surveillance and cybercrime in Uzbekistan is worrying enough to use a VPN to keep your online activities secure and private. Unfortunately, most VPNs with strong security drag down speeds in Uzbekistan, where the internet is already slow.
After testing more than 25 VPNs, I found a few that kept my online data secure from hackers and eavesdroppers while overcoming biased censorship. They also deliver the fastest speeds to ensure your online activities don’t lag on the Uzbek network.
ExpressVPN stood out for its top-notch security, fully audited policies, and high-speed servers in and outside Uzbekistan. You can get ExpressVPN risk-free for Uzbekistan since all plans are guaranteed by a 30-day refund policy. If you decide you don’t like it, it’s easy to get your money back by sending a request to the VPN via 24/7 live chat.
Quick Guide: Best VPNs for Uzbekistan in 2023
- ExpressVPN — The best VPN for Uzbekistan with high-speed servers, top security features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Try ExpressVPN risk-free.
- CyberGhost — Optimized servers make accessing global content easy in Uzbekistan, but its monthly plan has a short money-back guarantee period.
- Private Internet Access — PIA’s MACE blocks ads, malware, and trackers when browsing the web in Uzbekistan, but its distant servers are slow.
- NordVPN — Obfuscated servers help access the internet without restrictions on certain Uzbek networks, but it might share your data with foreign intelligence agencies.
- Surfshark — Rotates your IP address regularly in Uzbekistan, but it takes a while to connect to servers.
Why Do You Need a VPN for Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan has faced criticism over its internet censorship and surveillance activities. By using a VPN, you can hide your online activities from prying eyes, ensuring your privacy is intact. A VPN is also useful to:
- Using the Internet without limitations — some websites and services that you’ve always used have a history of being blocked or restricted in Uzbekistan. While in the country, there is a possibility that you might not be able to access your Twitter, TikTok accounts, or Opera browser. A VPN lets you use the internet normally and safely.
- Secure public WiFi use — public WiFi networks in Uzbek cafes and airports are insecure and susceptible to hacking. A VPN encrypts your data, protecting you from potential cyber threats when using these networks.
- Use VoIP services — the government has blocked internet calls and services like Skype in the past. This can be a very expensive restriction if you need to get in touch with friends and family back home. A VPN with servers outside Uzbekistan can help you use Skype, WhatsApp and other VoIP services fully.
- Maintain online freedom — using a VPN allows you to maintain your online freedom, ensuring you can express your opinions, consume any content, and engage in online activities without fear of repercussions.
The Best VPNs for Uzbekistan — Updated 2023
1. ExpressVPN — #1 VPN for Uzbekistan With High-Speed Servers All Over the World
Key Features:
- Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, including Uzbekistan
- 256-bit military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and a no-log policy that’s proven by an external audit and a real-life police raid
- 24/7 live chat and email support plus an extensive knowledge base online
- Allows you to connect 8 devices in Uzbekistan simultaneously
- All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee
I found that ExpressVPN had the fastest connection speeds for Uzbekistan compared to all the other VPNs I tested. It made sure my speeds stayed above 75Mbps to stream lag-free, even on my slowest broadband WiFi. Thanks to its Lightway protocol, you won’t notice a significant drop in baseline speed even if you connect to a server far away from Uzbekistan.
With a huge global network of 3,000+ servers in 94 countries, ExpressVPN is one of the few VPNs with Uzbek servers that can connect to local services like your KDB bank account. Virtual servers that aren’t physically located in the country are a huge advantage because internet surveillance in Uzbekistan makes it risky to maintain physical servers there.
While most local Uzbek TV stations are nationalized and are available even without a VPN, it’s always useful to have some additional protection while you’re inside the country. ExpressVPN even works with popular geo-restricted TV networks in Uzbekistan. Testing showed it could stream Netflix along with Milliy TV, Bolojan, and NTVPlus while in Uzbekistan.
Unlike most VPNs, all ExpressVPN servers are obfuscated. It makes your VPN connection seem like regular traffic so that it won’t be blocked by anti-VPN firewalls in some networks. So, it’s possible to continue using ExpressVPN even if VPNs are blocked in Uzbekistan, as was reported in 2019. Besides these, ExpressVPN has many advanced security features like:
- Military-grade encryption — uses the most secure 256-bit cipher available to secure your online data and activities in
- DNS, IP, and WebRTC leak protection — proven during tests that your traffic will stay within the encrypted tunnel.
- Audited no-log policy — runs on RAM-based servers that erase all data once rebooted, and this was proven when the Turkish authorities seized them and found no data.
- Network Lock kill switch — shuts off the internet if your network becomes unstable in Uzbekistan, where dial-up modems are still common and the internet is unreliable.
- British Virgin Islands jurisdiction — free from international data-sharing treaties, so you don’t have to worry about your information being shared with other governments.
The only con to ExpressVPN is its higher price than other VPNs on this list. However, its superior security and privacy make it worth the investment — especially with a 49% discount on the 1-year + 3 months plan, which costs $6.67 a month.
Plus, you can try ExpressVPN for Uzbekistan risk-free as it backs your purchase with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide to go with a different VPN, refunds are easy to get via 24/7 live chat. I got an approval message a minute after sending my refund request, and I had the full subscription amount back in my bank account in 4 days.
ExpressVPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, routers, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Fire TV Stick, Roku, Kodi, some smart TVs, and more.
ExpressVPN works with: Netflix, Max, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Milliy TV, Uzbekistan 24, Toshkent, Mahalla, Bolajon, Kinoteatr, NTVPlus, and more.
2023 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan (you can save up to 49%) + 3 months free! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it’s gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers Unblock International Streaming Sites in Uzbekistan
Key Features:
- 9,600+ servers in 91 countries, with 25 in neighboring Kazakhstan
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and no-log servers keep your data safe and private when you’re in Uzbekistan
- Live chat support is available 24/7, or get help via online tickets or extensive FAQs
- Allows up to 7 devices at the same time in Uzbekistan
- A generous 45-day money-back guarantee on all long-term plans
CyberGhost’s servers can access shows and websites in Uzbekistan without restrictions. While there are options that can unblock Netflix US, UK, Japan, and more, using CyberGhost for that would violate Netflix’s terms of service and constitute copyright infringement. We don’t condone that. Fortunately, its regular servers in Kazakhstan also accessed Uzbek channels like Milliy TV.
In terms of speed, CyberGhost can provide fast and reliable connections. You can connect to a server in Kazakhstan, less than 1,000 miles away from Uzbekistan, to use your apps like Twitter and TikTok. When I connected to a server within 1,000 miles of my location, I had speeds averaging 64Mbps. This was fast enough to make uninterrupted, high-quality video calls.
I rely on CyberGhost’s WiFi protection feature heavily since I occasionally work from a cafe. It allows me to set the app to automatically start a VPN connection when my laptop detects a public hotspot. Since these networks are risky, I don’t have to worry about accidentally going online without protection. CyberGhost also protects your data on Uzbekistan networks with:
- AES 256-bit encryption — hides your information from hackers and other eavesdroppers.
- Headquartered in Romania — isn’t part of any global surveillance agreements that can jeopardize your privacy in Uzbekistan.
- NoSpy server network — maintains the servers in-house, so you won’t have to trust a server farm with your online privacy.
- Audited no-log policy — makes sure that none of your personally identifiable data is stored in its network or system.
The one downside of CyberGhost is its shorter refund period of just 14 days on its 1-month plan compared to ExpressVPN. However, the long-term plans come with a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. Plus, they’re an especially good deal for $2.11 a month if you get the 2-year + 3 months subscription.
You don’t have to take my word for it — try CyberGhost and get a refund when you’re done using it in Uzbekistan. Just contact support via 24/7 live chat and ask for your money back within the refund period. I went through the process myself and got my request approved in under 2 minutes. I had my money back 3 days later.
CyberGhost is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, Chrome, Firefox, Fire TV Stick, Roku, Kodi, some smart TVs, and more.
CyberGhost works with: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, Milliy TV, Toshkent, Mahalla, Bolajon, NTVPlus, and more.
2023 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.11 per month + get extra 3 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it’s gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — MACE Blocks Malware and Ads on the Uzbekistan Web
Key Features:
- More than 35,000+ servers in over 84 countries, including Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Armenia
- 256-bit military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, malware blocking, and a kill switch
- 24/7 live chat support plus online ticket submission, guides and FAQs
- Connect unlimited devices at once
- 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
PIA’s MACE keeps you safe from malicious links, ads, and tracker bots in Uzbekistan. MACE automatically compares all URLs with a threat database before your devices can connect to them, preventing them from stealing your data. It also blocks trackers that slow down your connection and follow you online.
Besides MACE, PIA keeps you safe in Uzbekistan with:
- Customizable encryption — allows you to switch between the stronger 256-bit and the faster 128-bit encryptions to suit your online activities.
- Advanced kill switch — delays internet reconnection until the VPN is restored if there’s been a disruption.
- Private payment option — subscribe with a gift card to avoid providing PIA with any personal details that can be used to identify you.
During streaming tests, PIA’s servers in Kazakhstan consistently worked with Uzbek television stations. They allowed me to easily stream Milliy TV, Bolajon, and other local channels without any lag or buffering.
The only problem with PIA is that its distant servers are slower than ExpressVPN’s. However, I watched YouTube videos on the popular Uzbek channel, Xorazm Net, without any lags during tests. This, despite connecting to a server in Kazakhstan, almost 4,000 miles away from me.
If you’d like to try PIA for Uzbekistan, it’s one of the best VPNs for monthly subscriptions. However, I recommend its 2-year + 3 months plan as it costs just $2.11 a month. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee that makes it risk-free. I made my request via 24/7 live chat, and it was approved in a few minutes. I had my money back later the same week.
PIA is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, Chrome, Firefox, Fire TV Stick, Roku, Kodi, some smart TVs, and more.
PIA works with: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Milliy TV, Toshkent, Mahalla, Bolajon, NTVPlus, and more.
2023 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.11 per month + get extra 3 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it’s gone. See more information on this offer here!
4. NordVPN — Obfuscated Specialty Servers Bypass Anti-VPN Firewalls in Uzbekistan
Key Features:
- 5,700+ servers in 60 countries, including Georgia
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption, NordLynx protocol with Double NAT for better privacy, a kill switch, a no-log policy
- 24/7 live chat assistance, email support, and an online knowledge base
- Use up to 6 devices in Uzbekistan
- All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee
You can connect to NordVPN’s 105 obfuscated specialty servers around the world from Uzbekistan. This is particularly useful when you want to access content in places where VPNs are typically hindered, like certain educational institutions or offices.
What I also liked was how NordVPN manages its DNS requests. Instead of using public DNS servers, it employs its private DNS. This approach ensures that every website you visit in Uzbekistan isn’t logged by third-party companies. A few more privacy features I noted include:
- Double VPN servers — hide your traffic by encrypting it twice, making it tough for anyone in Uzbekistan trying to trace your online footprints.
- NordLynx protocol — offers enhanced encryption, ensuring that personal data remains private and safeguarded from any potential interception.
Additionally, NordVPN has over 5,000 specialty servers that support torrenting. I was able to download several black-and-white public domain films using its P2P server in Georgia. One silent movie that’s 786MB only took 2 minutes and 30 seconds to download despite the 4,000+ miles distance.
It’s worth mentioning that NordVPN might share data on your online activities in Uzbekistan if requested by the police or other agents. But, this doesn’t worry me since it has a rigorously audited no-log policy, and its infrastructure uses RAM-based servers.
If you’re hesitant about trying NordVPN, remember that it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it’s risk-free. 2 weeks after paying $2.99 a month for the 2-year + 3 months plan, I sent a message via 24/7 live chat to get a refund. I got my money back in 1 week.
NordVPN is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, Chrome, Firefox, some smart TVs, and more.
NordVPN works with: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Max, Disney+, and more.
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5. Surfshark — IP Rotator Makes it Difficult for Others to Trace Your Activities in Uzbekistan
Key Features:
- 3,200+ servers in 100 countries including Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- Military-grade 256-bit encryption, IP Rotator, CleanWeb, Camouflage Mode, a kill switch, and a no-log policy
- 24/7 live chat, email support, and online guides, including Surfschool
- Connect unlimited devices simultaneously
- Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
Surfshark’s IP Rotator constantly changes your IP address in Uzbekistan as you use it. This rotation makes it hard for anyone to track what you’re doing online, especially when you’re online for long periods of time visiting different sites.
This is another one of the few VPNs that have servers in Uzbekistan. During tests, they easily accessed Milliy TV and Bolajon. They could also easily access online banks and news sites like Gazeta.
Connecting to a server in Uzbekistan took less than 3 minutes since Surfshark has apps for all major platforms. It’s also one of the best VPNs to use with your smart TV and other devices that don’t natively support VPNs.
I also tested its ‘fastest location’ button. It automatically connected me to the speediest server, and I consistently had speeds well over 50Mbps. This was perfect for high-bandwidth activities. Since Surfshark has 5 servers in Uzbekistan, using this button will most likely connect you to one of them.
Unfortunately, the initial server connection upon starting up my device always took about 10 seconds or more. Fortunately, every subsequent connection was pretty quick, and I could browse in less than a minute.
If you’re thinking of trying Surfshark in Uzbekistan, take comfort in the 30-day money-back guarantee. I got my money back in 8 days after canceling my 2-year + 3 months plan, which I subscribed to for $2.21 a month. You can do the same by sending a message via its 24/7 live chat support system.
Surfshark is compatible with: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome, some smart TVs, routers, and more.
Surfshark works with: Netflix, Disney+, Milliy TV, Mahalla, Bolajon, and more.
Comparison Table: 2023’s Best VPNs for Uzbekistan
| VPN | Global Server Network | Obfuscation | Device Limit | Best Plan and Price | Money-Back Guarantee |
| ExpressVPN | 3,000+ servers in 94 countries | ✔ | 8 | 1-year + 3 months plan at $6.67 a month | 30 days |
| CyberGhost | 9,600+ servers in 91 countries | ✘ | 7 | 2-year + 3 months plan at $2.11 a month | 45 days |
| PIA | 35,000+ servers in 84 countries | ✔ | unlimited | 2-year + 3 months plan at $2.11 a month | 30 days |
| NordVPN | 5,700+ servers in 60 countries | ✔ | 6 | 2-year + 3 months plan at $2.99 a month | 30 days |
| Surfshark | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | ✔ | unlimited | 2-year + 3 months plan at $2.21 a month | 30 days |
How I Tried and Tested the Best VPNs for Uzbekistan
I used the following criteria to determine the best VPNs available for Uzbekistan:
- Strong security and privacy features — To stay safe from hackers and maintain your data privacy in Uzbekistan, your VPN needs 256-bit military-grade encryption, data leak protection, a no-logs policy, and a network kill switch. I also prioritized VPNs with obfuscation features.
- Global server network — The best way to access the open web in Uzbekistan is with a VPN that has a network of servers in other countries. I tested each VPN’s servers to determine how reliable they are at accessing global content.
- Fast speeds — In order to browse, stream, play, and use apps seamlessly, you need fast speeds. This prevents annoying lag and other performance issues. I only selected VPNs that are fast, even on servers that are far away from Uzbekistan.
- Apps for popular devices — If you travel with multiple devices, your VPN needs to support multiple connections. Plus, I only listed VPNs with compatible apps for common platforms.
- Customer support — 24/7 support via live chat or an online ticket system with fast replies gets you help whenever you need it. I also tested each VPN’s money-back guarantee process to confirm it’s legitimate.
3 Easy Steps to Get a VPN in Uzbekistan
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for Uzbekistan as it’s the best overall. It has the fastest speeds to support all your high-bandwidth activities without lags.
- Connect to a server. You can let the VPN auto-select the fastest server or choose a server in Uzbekistan for optimal speed.
- That’s it! Now you can browse the web safely and anonymously in Uzbekistan.
FAQs on VPNs for Uzbekistan
Is using a VPN legal in Uzbekistan?
Yes, it’s legal to use VPNs in Uzbekistan. But even if you use a top VPN provider in the country, it doesn’t give you a license to unblock censored websites, hide illegal activities, or violate copyright. Doing criminal activities still leaves you liable to be arrested, whether or not you use a VPN.
Review the rules before you travel to Uzbekistan just to be safe. You should also read the terms of service on your streaming subscriptions, as using VPNs to unblock geo-restricted content is usually forbidden. Breaking the terms of use on a paid app can get your account shut down with no refund.
Can I use a proxy in Uzbekistan instead of a VPN?
It’s possible, but proxies don’t always work. They also don’t give you the same security or privacy as when you choose a full-featured VPN. For example, not even paid proxy services usually have end-to-end military-grade encryption or no-logging policies.
That means hackers might be able to access your data, and all your online activities could be exposed. Some proxies even collect your private information to sell it for profit. Even if they were secure, proxies can’t reliably unblock sites and slow down when too many users connect.
With the top VPNs, you don’t have to deal with safety issues, restrictions, or lag because every VPN on this list has a money-back guarantee. For example, a 30-day refund window lets you subscribe to ExpressVPN without risking anything.
How do I check if my VPN works?
You can use a free IP address checker to confirm that your VPN is properly connected. The map should show a location that matches the server you’re using. For example, connecting to a server in Uzbekistan should display a city in that country. If you see your real location, disconnect and try again, or contact your VPN for help.
Is it safe to use a free VPN in Uzbekistan?
No. Unlike the top VPNs for Uzbekistan, most free VPNs won’t work in the country or aren’t safe. This is because most of them don’t invest in proper security and privacy features. If you’re really unlucky, you might even download a malicious scam VPN that puts tracking malware onto your devices.
All the premium VPNs on this list have money-back guarantees of 30 days or more. For example, you can take advantage of CyberGhost’s 45-day guarantee to use it for free and then get your money refunded.
Even though there are some good free VPN providers, they have tight limits on servers, speeds, data, and other things that make them too restrictive for most uses. Plus, to make money, lots of them show you ads that interrupt your experience.
Get a VPN (That Works) for Uzbekistan Today!
With rampant internet surveillance and cybercrime in Uzbekistan, having a reliable VPN is a must. But frustratingly, few VPNs have servers that are fast enough for a region where the internet is already slow.
After testing over 2 dozen VPNs, I found that ExpressVPN is the top VPN for Uzbekistan. In addition to reliable servers in the country and region, it has fully audited security features. Plus, it works with local banks, streaming sites, and apps for seamless access with super-fast speeds.
You can even get ExpressVPN for Uzbekistan risk-free since all plans are supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide that it isn’t the right fit, you can get your refund processed in about a minute via 24/7 live chat.
