What Is a Double VPN and When Should You Use One?

A double VPN can help make your data more secure, but it isn’t always necessary.

Last updated Sep 6, 2024

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A double VPN can give you added security by routing your connection through more than one encrypted server, but it might not be necessary depending on your needs.

Many of the best VPN providers offer a double VPN feature, also known as multi-hop or VPN chain, but it could come at an extra cost.

To understand whether you need a double VPN, let’s look at what it is, how it works, and the pros and cons of using one.

In this article

What is a double VPN and how does it work?
Should you use a double VPN?
Double VPN pros and cons
What are the best VPNs with a double VPN feature?
How to use a double VPN
Double VPN FAQs
Bottom line

What is a double VPN and how does it work?

A double VPN works by sending your information through two encrypted VPN servers, doubling the security of your data. A double VPN connection initially encrypts your data from your device by routing it through a remote VPN server. From that point, the data is then re-encrypted by sending it through a second VPN server.

Here’s how your data is protected when using a double VPN:

When you head to a website, your VPN provider encrypts your request and then encrypts your activity on the website.
After this initial encryption, the information is then sent to the second server, where it is encrypted a second time.

Is a double VPN the same as a VPN chain or multi-hop VPN?

Yes, there are several names for a double VPN, including a VPN chain or a multi-hop VPN. These solutions are all the same, providing double encryption when using a VPN.

That said, there are other solutions which are similar to a double VPN but not quite the same:

Onion over VPN: Encrypts your internet traffic with a VPN server, then sends it through The Onion Routing (TOR) network for additional encryption. After that, your data is sent through additional VPN servers to provide extra encryption.
VPN over VPN: Uses two different VPNs to create your own double VPN, instead of using the option within a single VPN.

Should you use a double VPN?

A double VPN adds more security to your browsing data and location, but it’s not necessary for all instances. Here’s when using a double VPN could be beneficial:

To protect your data: While most VPNs are sufficient for encrypting your data, a double VPN adds an extra layer of encryption in case the initial encryption is intercepted and decrypted. In many cases, a single VPN will be enough to protect your online activity, but when accessing confidential or sensitive information, a double VPN may be a nice touch.
To avoid censorship or government surveillance: When avoiding internet censorship, you can route your traffic to a server in an uncensored country with the first VPN and route it to a censored country with the second VPN. This means your connection will look like it comes from the first VPN server location and can allow you to circumvent any government restrictions. Journalists and political activists may use a double-hop VPN app to add extra security to their online connection and access censored information and websites.
To secure public Wi-Fi: Using public Wi-Fi can be dangerous for the security of your data. A double VPN provides an additional level of security when you’re browsing using public Wi-Fi.

When is a double VPN not necessary?

A standard VPN offers privacy when browsing the internet and is sufficient for most of your browsing activities.

If you’re looking to protect your day-to-day browsing history from your internet service provider (ISP), access geo-restricted content, or mask your IP address, a double VPN is likely not necessary.

Double VPN pros and cons

A double VPN does help increase your security and privacy, but does that come at a cost? When using a VPN, privacy is likely your number one focus, but did you know that using VPNs increase data usage, can affect your internet speed, and more?

Here’s a look at the drawbacks and benefits of a double VPN:

Pros

Double encryption: The biggest advantage of a double VPN is the encryption. This gives users two layers of protection to help further protect internet privacy and security.
IP address security: A double VPN also uses two IP addresses which helps ensure that your IP address remains private.
Anonymous location: The dual IP addresses mean your actual location is masked twice, making it almost impossible to track your location.

Cons

Slower speeds: When using a double VPN, your data needs to go through two different servers and encryption processes, which can slow down your internet connection speeds.
Reduced server options: Since a double VPN uses two servers, it may limit the server options available to use.

What are the best VPNs with a double VPN feature?

If you’re looking for a double VPN, finding the right provider is important. Many VPN clients offer a double VPN as well as other important privacy features like a kill switch and no-logs policy.

Here are three VPN providers we recommend, along with how much each VPN costs.

3 best double VPN services

Starting price	Number of double VPN servers	Encryption methods	Learn more
$2.99/mo (billed every two years)	82 servers	AES-256-GCM	Get NordVPN Read Our NordVPN Review
$1.99/mo (billed every two years)	12 servers	AES-256-GCM	Get Surfshark Read Our Surfshark Review
$2.59/mo (billed every two years)	2,000 servers (paid only)	AES-256	Get hide.me Read Our hide.me Review

How to use a double VPN

If your VPN offers the double VPN option, the servers that are compatible with it are likely indicated in the server list or within the settings.

For example, NordVPN’s double VPN is included in its standard account. After you’ve signed up and downloaded the NordVPN app, follow these instructions to gain access to Nord’s double VPN:

Open the NordVPN app.
Head to the “Specialty Servers” section at the bottom of the server list.
Select Double VPN to get connected. You can also manually select specific servers that are best for your needs.

Find out more in our NordVPN review, complete with hands-on testing results.

Double VPN FAQs

Is double VPN overkill?

A double VPN isn’t overkill if you need an extra layer of security. A standard VPN is enough to protect your everyday browsing data, streaming when traveling abroad, or circumventing internet censorship. However, a double VPN may be the right solution if you need to be extra cautious with sensitive information or want to ensure privacy from government censorship.

What’s better, double VPN or Onion over VPN?

A double VPN and Onion over VPN are two different services and might be better for different situations, but Onion over VPN provides more layers of encryption. Onion over VPN is used when accessing Tor specifically, while a double VPN can be used to access the internet without using Tor.

Can I use two VPNs at the same time?

Yes, you can use two VPNs at the same time. However, it isn’t as simple as turning on two VPNs. The VPNs may conflict and cause problems as you try to connect them both.

To use two VPNs at the same time and do it successfully, you may need to set up a virtual machine to run the second VPN. When setting up two VPNs, you want to make sure that the two providers don’t overlap in their efforts. This can cause errors as you browse.

Does ExpressVPN have a double VPN?

No, ExpressVPN currently doesn't provide a double VPN feature. However, other well-known VPN apps like Surfshark and NordVPN do offer double VPN.

Bottom line

In most cases, a standard VPN is sufficient to protect your internet activities and help you get around geo-restrictions. However, if you’re looking for more security and to avoid government censorship, a double VPN can help. Just be aware that double encryption can slow down your connection speed.

A double VPN is accessible through various VPN providers, including some of our top recommended VPNs:

If you’re accessing sensitive information or traveling to a foreign country where your internet privacy is critical, a double VPN may be the right solution.

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Author Details

Andrew Adams

About the Author

Andrew Strom Adams is a freelance writer focused on online privacy and digital security. He writes on various topics to help individuals protect themselves on the internet. Andrew has worked in legal marketing, technology, and startups. He has more than 12 years of experience in marketing and communications. He holds an M.B.A. from Westminster College and a B.A. in journalism from Oklahoma Baptist University. When he’s not writing, he’s playing with his two kids or watching reality TV.